Vibrio Vulnificus Infections Reported on US Gulf Coast

At least 23 cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria capable of causing necrotizing fasciitis, have been reported in Florida and Louisiana, resulting in 7 deaths.

Health officials noted that while the 14 cases and 2 deaths in Florida by mid-August 2026 are within historical averages, Louisiana has seen 5 deaths among 9 cases.

The bacteria, which thrives in warm coastal waters, primarily infects individuals with underlying health conditions through open wounds or the consumption of raw shellfish.