Health officials have reported that cases of a rare type of flesh-eating bacteria found in warm seawater are currently increasing in Florida and Louisiana.
In 2026 so far, state officials say that 15 cases of Vibrio vulnificus have been reported in Florida as of Aug. 13, and 10 cases have been reported in Louisiana as of Aug. 12.
Seven people have died from the bacterial infection this year, with two deaths being reported in Florida and five in Louisiana. In the most recent reports posted by both states, no deaths have been reported since the last updates.
Vibrio vulnificus can enter the body through unhealed cuts and scrapes, recent piercings and tattoos, and recent surgical incisions. If a person has such a wound, they are advised to cover it with a waterproof bandage if there’s a chance of exposure, and stay out of saltwater or brackish water, according to officials. Brackish water refers to a mixture of salt and fresh water such as when rivers meet the ocean….