As water temperatures along the Gulf Coast rise, doctors are warning of a potentially deadly flesh-eating bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, which has seen more cases than usual in 2025. Louisiana has confirmed at least 17 cases, four of which have turned deadly, while Florida has 13 cases and four deaths. Dr. Alok Patel, a pediatrician at Stanford Children’s Health, advises staying out of the water if you have fresh wounds or cuts, as Vibrio vulnificus enters the body. Immunocompromised individuals face even higher risks, but anyone can get an infection, and a high percentage of those infected need hospitalization. Eating raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters, also puts you at risk. Symptoms include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, wound infections, and bloodstream infections.
The Gulf Coast is experiencing an increase in cases of flesh-eating bacteria. Thuy 630
