In recent weeks, Florida has experienced a spike in Vibrio vulnificus bacterial infection cases since the widespread flooding and heavy rains in the aftermath of 2 major hurricanes, as reported by the state’s health department. This year, there have already been 74 cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections, similar to the number cases reported in 2022, when Hurricane Ian and other major storms hit the state. The latest data also shows 13 deaths attributed to Vibrio vulnificus infections so far this year. Tampa Bay and surrounding areas are reporting the largest increases in infection. The bacterium thrives in warm floodwaters, and infections can spike when people wade through flooded areas with fresh cuts or scrapes.
Over simplification: Some Vibrio infections lead to necrotizing fasciitis, which has prompted the somewhat inaccurate moniker of “flesh-eating bacteria.” However, public health experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believe group A Streptococcus are actually the most common cause of necrotizing fasciitis in the United States.