Public Health Warning Issued for Flesh-Eating Bacteria in Warming Waters

Health officials have issued warnings as Vibrio vulnificus infections rise, with Louisiana reporting nine cases and five deaths, and Florida recording 14 cases and two deaths.

Rising ocean temperatures due to climate change have expanded the bacteria's habitat, leading to an eightfold increase in wound infections in the eastern US between 1988 and 2018.

The CDC advises individuals with open wounds, including new piercings or tattoos, to avoid contact with seawater or brackish water to prevent potentially fatal necrotising fasciitis.