Overview

• Louisiana Department of Health confirms 17 Vibrio vulnificus cases and four deaths as of early August, more than twice its decade average
• Florida Department of Health reports 13 infections and four fatalities this summer, triggering statewide health alerts
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns the bacteria thrives in warm, brackish waters between May and October and enters through open wounds or raw shellfish
• Individuals with liver disease, diabetes or weakened immunity face the highest risk of rapid-onset necrosis, sepsis or limb amputation without prompt treatment
• Health authorities advise cooking shellfish thoroughly, covering wounds, washing exposed skin after water contact and wearing protective footwear in coastal areas