In a follow-up on the Vibrio vulnificus situation in Florida in 2026, state health officials reported an additional case in Marion County the last week of May.
This brings the state total to six cases.
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria in warm, brackish seawater. Most people get vibriosis by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters.
Since it is naturally found in warm marine waters, people with open wounds can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with seawater.
Healthy individuals typically develop a mild disease; however Vibrio vulnificus infections can be a serious concern for people who have weakened immune systems, particularly those with chronic liver disease.
The bacterium can invade the bloodstream, causing a severe and life-threatening illness with symptoms like fever, chills, decreased blood pressure (septic shock) and blistering skin lesions.