Flesh-eating bacteria have caused several deaths in Florida and Louisiana this summer. How to reduce your risk of Vibrio vulnificus infection before swimming in the ocean.

health • 8/12/2025

A flesh-eating bacteria, known as Vibrio vulnificus, has caused several deaths in Florida and Louisiana this summer. Though cases are generally rare, here's how to prevent illness from the life-threatening bacteria.

Health officials in several states are alerting residents about a flesh-eating bacteria that thrives in warm coastal waters. Approximately 60 cases of Vibrio vulnificus have been confirmed in 11 states, according to Today. The highest numbers have be... [3221 chars]