Louisiana Health Officials Report Five Deaths from Flesh-Eating Bacteria in 2026
In 2026, Louisiana has reported nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacterium, resulting in five deaths. The Louisiana Department of Health confirmed that all patients had underlying health conditions and were hospitalized after their wounds were exposed to seawater. Vibrio vulnificus is most prevalent in warm coastal waters from May to October. The bacterium can infect individuals through open wounds exposed to brackish or salt water or by consuming raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that about one in five people infected with Vibrio vulnificus die, and the infection can lead to severe complications, including amputations. 
