Overview
- Florida health officials have confirmed 11 Vibrio vulnificus infections and four deaths so far this year in Bay, Broward, Hillsborough and St. Johns counties.
- Infections have a roughly 20% overall fatality rate and about 50% if the bacteria enters the bloodstream, often causing necrotizing fasciitis.
- The Florida Department of Health has issued guidance urging people to keep wounds covered, avoid raw shellfish and wear protective clothing when in coastal waters.
- Last year’s record of 82 cases and 19 deaths was linked to hurricane-driven flooding that pushed warm saltwater into freshwater sources.
- Climate change–driven warming of coastal waters and stronger storms are expected to further increase Vibrio risks and drive annual healthcare costs up to $6.1 billion by 2090.