Bay County, Fla. (WDNews) – Florida health officials are warning residents and visitors to take extra precautions around coastal waters after four people have died from Vibrio vulnificus infections in 2025.
According to the Florida Department of Health (FDOH), eleven cases have been reported this year as of Friday, July 11. The deaths occurred in Bay, Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns counties.
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria found in warm, brackish seawater. People can become infected by exposing open wounds to contaminated water or by consuming raw or undercooked seafood. The infection can cause rapid tissue breakdown near wounds and may require amputation. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
“Vibrio vulnificus can cause severe illness or even death, especially in people with open wounds or weakened immune systems,” the Florida Department of Health said in a statement. “We urge the public to avoid exposing open cuts to brackish water and to properly cook all seafood to reduce the risk of infection.”
The department has not released the sources of the 2025 cases, but officials say people with liver disease, weakened immune systems, or recent wounds are especially at risk.
In 2024, the state recorded a historic high of 82 cases and 19 deaths, many following widespread flooding from hurricanes Helene and Milton. Vibrio vulnificus thrives in brackish water—where saltwater and freshwater mix—making storm surge and flooding major risk factors.
Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that all Vibrio bacteria, including Vibrio vulnificus, cause about 80,000 illnesses and 100 deaths annually.
From 2008 to 2025, at least 178 people in Florida have died from Vibrio vulnificus, according to FDOH records.
