Overview

• The Florida Department of Health issued an urgent advisory for residents and visitors, including those traveling to the Orlando area and Disney World.
• State data show 20 confirmed Vibrio vulnificus infections in 2025 with five deaths, including two in Bay County and one each in Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns.
• Vibrio vulnificus thrives in warm salt and brackish waters and typically infects through open wounds or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish.
• Public guidance urges avoiding natural waters with open wounds, cooking seafood thoroughly, checking local water advisories, and promptly cleaning and covering any cuts.
• Coverage notes the advisory could influence beach plans and trip decisions for theme park visitors, even as regulated park pools remain a lower-risk option.