SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) is reporting that four people in Florida have died from a flesh eating so far in 2025.
Naturally found in warm brackish seawater, Vibrio vulnificus are a bacterium a part of a group of vibrio’s called “halophilic” (salt-loving), according to the FDOH.
There have currently been 11 cases reported and four deaths across the state in 2025, including in Manatee and Hillsborough Counties.
Infection Data in Florida (as of July 11, 2025):
YearCasesDeaths201646102022741720234611202482192025*114
Infections are usually rare but can occur with the presence of open wounds, so it is not recommended to enter the water with fresh cuts or scrapes. The FDOH warns that anyone with health conditions like chronic liver disease, kidney disease, or weakened immune system are more at risk and “should wear proper foot protection to prevent cuts and injury caused by rocks and shells on the beach.”
Infected wounds may require aggressive care including debridement or amputation.
According to the health department, Florida sees peaks in these bacteria during hurricane season, as well as during stormwater and flooding conditions.
The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) is reporting that four people in Florida have died from a flesh eating so far in 2025.(WWSB)
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