Florida Reports First ‘Flesh-Eating Bacteria’ Death as Infections Spread Across the State

Florida has reported its first death of 2026 linked to Vibrio vulnificus, the potentially deadly infection commonly known as “flesh-eating bacteria.”

The victim was a Palm Beach County resident between the ages of 80 and 84, according to new data released Thursday by the Florida Department of Health. Officials have not disclosed the person’s identity or explained how the infection was contracted.

Florida has now confirmed 12 Vibrio vulnificus infections this year.

Three cases, including the fatal infection, have been reported in Palm Beach County. Miami-Dade County has recorded two cases, while the remaining infections were reported in Bay, Hillsborough, Lee, Marion, Okaloosa, Polk and St. Johns counties.

The latest death comes after Florida recorded five fatalities and 33 confirmed infections in 2025.

In 2024, the state reported a much larger surge, with 82 infections and 19 deaths.

Health officials linked an unusual rise in cases that year across Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Pasco, Pinellas and Sarasota counties to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The storm may have increased residents’ exposure to contaminated coastal and floodwaters.

Vibrio vulnificus naturally lives in warm coastal water, particularly brackish water where freshwater and saltwater mix. Infections are most common during the warmer months, typically between May and October.

People can become infected by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters, which can carry the bacteria.

The bacteria can also enter the body through cuts, scrapes, surgical wounds or other breaks in the skin when someone comes into contact with contaminated seawater or brackish water.

Although infections are relatively rare, they can become life-threatening in a matter of hours.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that roughly 80,000 Americans develop illnesses caused by different types of Vibrio bacteria each year. About one in five people who develop a severe Vibrio vulnificus infection die from it.

Early symptoms can include fever, chills, redness, swelling and a rapidly worsening skin infection.

More serious cases may lead to septic shock and painful, blistering skin lesions. Without immediate treatment, the bacteria can spread quickly and destroy skin, muscle and other tissue.

Patients with severe infections may require multiple surgeries to remove damaged tissue. In extreme cases, doctors may need to amputate an arm or leg to stop the infection from spreading.

Older adults, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic illnesses face the greatest risk of serious complications. People with liver disease or diabetes are considered especially vulnerable.

Florida health officials are urging residents and visitors with open wounds to stay out of warm coastal and brackish waters. People should also wear protective gloves while handling raw seafood and thoroughly cook shellfish before eating it.