A Palm Beach County resident has died in the state’s first fatal case of a “flesh-eating” bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus in 2026, according to the Florida Department of Health.
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The deceased was an elderly adult between 80 and 84 years old. No further details about them were immediately available.
In 2025, Florida reported 33 cases of Vibrio vulnificus and five deaths, according to reports from the Florida Department of Health. In 2024, 82 cases and 19 deaths were recorded, after Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota counties saw an unusual increase that health officials attribute to the effects of Hurricane Helene.
What is the “flesh-eating” bacteria?
Most people get vibriosis by eating raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters. Some people get vibriosis after an open wound comes into contact with coastal waters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Cases of Vibrio vulnificus tend to increase between May and October, when coastal waters are warmer and more people go to the beach or eat raw oysters.
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There are many types of bacteria that can cause the “flesh-eating disease” known as necrotizing fasciitis.
Public health experts believe Group A strep is the most common cause of necrotizing fasciitis.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms vary depending on how the bacteria enters the body, according to health authorities:
How can you protect yourself from this bacteria?
- Don’t eat raw oysters or other raw seafood.
- Cook seafood thoroughly, such as oysters, clams, and mussels.
- Avoid cross-contamination between cooked seafood and raw seafood or its juices.
- Keep open wounds or broken skin from coming into contact with warm saltwater or brackish water.
- Wear gloves when handling raw seafood.
This story was translated from Spanish with the help of a generative artificial intelligence tool. An NBC 6 editor reviewed the translation.
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