ORLANDO, Fla. – New data from the Florida Department of Health shows that four people have died in Florida after contracting a flesh-eating bacteria in 2025.
While there has been no official notice from health officials about Vibrio vulnificus, the FDOH on July 11 confirmed four deaths in Bay, Broward, Hillsborough and St. Johns counties.
In total, there have been 11 cases so far this year, none of which have been in Central Florida, according to health officials.
The FDOH did not specify the source of the new cases or where the individuals contracted the bacteria.
[BELOW: Man hospitalized with flesh-eating bacteria]
According to the FDOH, Vibrio vulnificus can be found in “warm, brackish seawater,” which can be blown inland by strong storms.
In addition, the FDOH explained that those with compromised immune systems, liver disease, or open wounds are at higher risk for Vibrio vulnificus.
“Vibrio bacteria, commonly found in warm coastal waters, can cause illness when ingested or when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water,” FDOH officials said.
[BELOW: Statewide alert issued in October 2024]
FDOH officials added that symptoms of infection can include the following:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Fast/High heart rate
- Confusion
- Disorientation
The Florida Department of Health issued a notice last October after Hurricane Milton swamped communities, urging residents to avoid floodwaters due to the increased risk of Vibrio vulnificus.
In December, News 6 talked to a woman after her husband contracted Vibrio vulnificus in Central Florida following Hurricane Milton.
The table below shows cases reported by the FDOH of Vibrio vulnificus in Florida since 2016:
| Historical data | Cases | Deaths |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 46 | 10 |
| 2017 | 50 | 11 |
| 2018 | 42 | 9 |
| 2019 | 27 | 2 |
| 2020 | 36 | 7 |
| 2021 | 34 | 10 |
| 2022 | 74 | 17 |
| 2023 | 46 | 11 |
| 2024 | 82 | 19 |
| 2025 | 11 | 4 |