Florida grapples with rising Vibrio vulnificus infections from water exposure

Florida has logged 14 cases of Vibrio vulnificus this year, including a child in Brevard County; doctors warn that while the flesh-eating bacteria is rare, it can rapidly injure tissue (necrotizing fasciitis) after an open wound in warm saltwater or brackish water or from undercooked shellfish, with higher risk for people with weakened immunity; a survivor recounts a 2025 infection that cost her a leg, highlighting the seriousness and urging vigilance and early treatment if symptoms develop.