Overview

• The Louisiana Department of Health says the state has tallied 34 Vibrio vulnificus infections and six deaths in 2025, far above the 10‑year averages of seven cases and one death.
• State authorities report the two most recent fatalities followed consumption of raw oysters harvested in Louisiana and served at restaurants in Florida.
• The CDC explains that Vibrio thrives in warm, brackish coastal waters and infects people through raw or undercooked shellfish or through open wounds exposed to seawater.
• Officials urge high‑risk individuals, including those with chronic liver disease or weakened immunity, to avoid raw oysters, cook shellfish thoroughly, and keep wounds out of coastal water or fully covered with waterproof dressings.
• Health experts warn symptoms can escalate within hours and that about one in five severe bloodstream infections is fatal, advising immediate medical care for rapidly worsening or discoloring wounds.