TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Four people have died from Florida’s carnivorous bacteria, the Florida Department of Health said.
“Vibrio vulnificus” is a meat-eating bacteria that normally live in warm seawater.
According to the Florida Department of Health, 11 confirmed cases in 2025, with four deaths.
People can get infected with Vibrio vulnificus when eating raw shellfish, especially oysters, or when they have open wounds and are in contact with seawater.
Here are some tips to avoid bacteria:
Do not eat shellfish from raw oysters or other raw shellfish dishes. Shells are wearing raw shellfish harvested from warm salt or brackish water or such water, avoiding open wounds or exposure of broken skin.
“The water and scratches do not mix. If you have fresh cuts or scuffs, don’t get into the water,” the Florida Department of Health said.
Those with immunocompromised or with weakened immune systems should wear protective footwear to prevent the amputation and damage caused by rocks and shells on the beach.
The confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus in Florida are:
Bay County: 1 Confirmed Case, 1 Confirmed Death Broward County: 1 Confirmed Case, 1 Confirmed Case, 1 Confirmed Case
In 2024 there were 82 confirmed cases with 19 deaths, according to the Florida Department of Health.
