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Florida Health Department Reports Second Death from Vibrio Infection in 2026

Florida Health Department Reports Second Death from Vibrio Infection in 2026

A resident of Marion County, Florida, has died after contracting Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium commonly found in warm coastal and brackish waters. This marks the second death in Florida attributed to the bacterium in 2026. The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) has confirmed 14 cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections this year. The bacterium can infect individuals through the consumption of raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters, or through open wounds exposed to contaminated water. Symptoms of the infection include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, septic shock and blistering skin lesions. The FDOH emphasizes that individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic liver disease, or kidney disease are at a higher risk of severe illness. Health officials advise avoiding raw shellfish, thoroughly cooking seafood, and keeping open wounds away from potentially contaminated waters.

Florida's Vibrio Cases Highlight Risks of Raw Oysters and Coastal Waters

Florida's Vibrio Cases Highlight Risks of Raw Oysters and Coastal Waters

Florida has reported 14 cases and two deaths from Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium found in warm coastal waters. The deaths occurred in Palm Beach and Marion counties, but the exact source of infection remains unclear. Vibrio vulnificus can infect individuals through raw or undercooked oysters and through open wounds exposed to contaminated water. The bacterium is often referred to as 'flesh-eating' due to its potential to cause severe tissue damage, although not all infections result in such outcomes.

Health Officials Warn of Rising Vibrio Infections Along Gulf Coast

Health Officials Warn of Rising Vibrio Infections Along Gulf Coast

Health officials in Louisiana and Florida are cautioning beachgoers about an increase in infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria thriving in coastal waters. This bacterium, which can be fatal in up to 20% of cases, enters the body through breaks in the skin or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish. The Gulf Coast, with its ideal mix of salt and heat, provides a conducive environment for the bacteria. Louisiana has reported nine cases and five deaths this year, while Florida has seen 14 cases and two deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that infections are more common from May to October and are exacerbated by climate change, which is causing the bacteria to spread northward.

Louisiana Health Officials Warn Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Louisiana Health Officials Warn Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Health officials in Louisiana are urging beachgoers to exercise caution due to a rise in infections from Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters. This year, Louisiana has reported nine cases, resulting in five deaths, a significant increase compared to the average of seven cases and one death over the past decade. The bacteria thrive in the warm, brackish waters of the Gulf Coast, with most infections occurring between May and October. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Vibrio vulnificus is the most deadly type of Vibrio bacteria, with a fatality rate of one in five. Infections can occur through open wounds exposed to contaminated water or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters.

Louisiana Health Officials Warn of Vibrio Vulnificus After Five Deaths

Louisiana Health Officials Warn of Vibrio Vulnificus After Five Deaths

In 2026, Louisiana has reported nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a rare flesh-eating bacteria, resulting in five deaths. The Louisiana Department of Health has issued warnings to beachgoers to take precautions. All cases were linked to wounds exposed to seawater, with patients having underlying health conditions. The bacteria, which naturally occurs in coastal waters, is more prevalent in warmer months. Infections can occur through open wounds or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that about one in five infected individuals die, often within days of infection.

Flesh-Eating Bacteria Outbreak in Louisiana Claims Five Lives

Flesh-Eating Bacteria Outbreak in Louisiana Claims Five Lives

Louisiana health officials have reported five deaths due to infections from Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacterium, in 2026. The state has recorded nine cases this year, with all patients having underlying health conditions and exposure to seawater. Vibrio vulnificus, found in warm coastal waters, can cause severe infections when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water. The bacterium's presence increases with warmer water temperatures, and infections can also occur from consuming raw or undercooked seafood.

Health Officials Warn Gulf Coast Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Health Officials Warn Gulf Coast Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Health officials in Louisiana are urging beachgoers to exercise caution due to a surge in infections from Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters. This year, Louisiana has reported nine cases, resulting in five deaths, compared to an average of seven cases and one death over the past decade. Vibrio bacteria thrive in the warm, salty waters of the Gulf Coast, with most infections occurring from May to October. The bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Vibrio vulnificus is the deadliest type, with a fatality rate of one in five infections.

Louisiana Health Officials Warn Beachgoers of Increased Risk from Flesh-Eating Bacteria

Louisiana Health Officials Warn Beachgoers of Increased Risk from Flesh-Eating Bacteria

Health officials in Louisiana are alerting the public about a rise in infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters. This year, Louisiana has reported nine cases, resulting in five deaths, a significant increase compared to the average of seven cases and one death over the past decade. The bacteria thrive in the warm, salty waters of the Gulf Coast, particularly from May to October. Infections can occur through open wounds exposed to brackish or saltwater, or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Vibrio vulnificus is the most deadly type of Vibrio bacteria, with a fatality rate of one in five. Florida has also reported 14 cases and two deaths this year, with more cases typically occurring during years with tropical storms and hurricanes.

Rabies-Positive Bat Found in Golden Valley Home, Colony Discovered

Rabies-Positive Bat Found in Golden Valley Home, Colony Discovered

A bat found inside a Golden Valley home has tested positive for rabies, prompting health concerns. The homeowners discovered the bat flying in their living room, and further inspection revealed a colony in the attic. The bats had been entering through gaps around the fireplace. Health officials emphasize the importance of not handling bats due to the risk of rabies, a serious health concern. Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control advises keeping bats confined and contacting professionals for removal, especially during peak bat season in August.

Springfield News-Leader

Missouri has 3rd largest cyclospora outbreak in US, CDC says

Missouri has 3rd largest cyclospora outbreak in US, CDC says

The CDC has confirmed 568 cases of cyclosporiasis in Missouri, though the number is likely much higher.

Rise in Cyclosporiasis Cases in California Raises Concerns

Rise in Cyclosporiasis Cases in California Raises Concerns

California has experienced a significant increase in cyclosporiasis cases, a gastrointestinal disease caused by the cyclospora parasite. Despite not being linked to the national outbreak, the state has reported 215 cases, a sharp rise from the annual average of 106. Health officials attribute the increase to factors such as international travel and heightened awareness leading to more testing. The disease is typically seasonal, with cases rising during spring and summer. The California Department of Public Health is investigating the cause of the increase, emphasizing the importance of food hygiene and local produce sourcing.

Salmonella Outbreaks Linked to Eggs and Jalapeños Affect Multiple States

Salmonella Outbreaks Linked to Eggs and Jalapeños Affect Multiple States

The U.S. is experiencing several salmonella outbreaks linked to eggs and jalapeño peppers, with hundreds of reported cases across multiple states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified eggs produced in Texas and jalapeños distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors as sources of the outbreaks. The eggs were sold under various brand names in several states, while the jalapeños were distributed to restaurants and food service companies. The outbreaks have resulted in numerous hospitalizations and one reported death. The CDC warns that the actual number of cases is likely higher than reported.