
Warming Gulf Waters Spark Rapid Flesh-Eating Infection Requiring Amputation
A 74-year-old Florida man developed a rapidly spreading Vibrio vulnificus infection after a leg wound from Gulf waters; within three days his leg was necrotic and he required amputation and skin grafts. The case highlights rising Vibrio infections linked to warmer waters and climate change, with mortality up to 50–60% for vulnerable patients and near 100% if untreated; public health guidance advises thoroughly cooked seafood and avoiding brackish water with open wounds.













