Florida records second Vibrio vulnificus death as oyster and seawater risks persist

Florida health officials have confirmed the state's second death from the flesh-eating bacterium Vibrio vulnificus in Marion County, part of 14 additional Florida cases this year. Vibrio infections are rare but can be deadly and thrive in warm coastal and brackish waters. Infections can occur when open wounds contact seawater or by eating contaminated raw shellfish, especially oysters; symptoms can range from GI symptoms to severe wound infections and sepsis, with higher risk for people with liver disease, diabetes, or immune suppression. To reduce risk, avoid raw oysters, cook shellfish thoroughly, prevent cross‑contamination, cover wounds when near coastal water, wear gloves handling shellfish, and be especially cautious after coastal floods or storms.