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Gulf Coast States Report Surge in Flesh-Eating Vibrio vulnificus Infections

Rising coastal water temperatures, fueling a surge of infections that can kill within days, have prompted warnings for those with open wounds to avoid seawater.

Beachgoers are on a very hot day at Clearwater Beach, Fla., on July 26, 2025.
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Overview

  • Louisiana has reported 17 Vibrio vulnificus cases with four deaths in 2025, surpassing its decade average of seven cases and one death.
  • Florida has confirmed 13 infections, including eight fatalities primarily tied to wound exposure, and North Carolina documented 59 cases with one death.
  • The CDC recommends immediate administration of a third-generation cephalosporin plus doxycycline and prompt surgical evaluation for suspected cases to reduce fatality risk.
  • Infections arise when open wounds contact warm salt or brackish water or through consumption of raw or undercooked seafood, with immunocompromised individuals facing the highest risk.
  • State health departments urge people to cover or avoid exposing open wounds in coastal waters and to thoroughly cook seafood to prevent infection.