Florida Reports Five Deaths from Flesh-Eating Bacteria in Tampa Bay

 

Five people have died from a flesh-eating bacteria in Tampa Bay since January.Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Officials in Florida have reported five deaths in the Tampa Bay area caused by a flesh-eating bacterium that is commonly found in warm, brackish seawater, particularly during the warmer months.

The bacterium, known as vibrio vulnificus, thrives in salty water. It can lead to serious infections, especially for those with open wounds, cuts, or scrapes. The deaths occurred due to reported bacterial infections in different counties.

In 2022, there were 74 cases and 17 deaths caused by vibrio vulnificus infections, attributed in part to increased bacteria levels resulting from sewage contamination after Hurricane Ian.

This bacterium can cause necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection where the flesh around open wounds dies. It can invade the bloodstream, causing life-threatening symptoms like fever, chills, low blood pressure, and skin lesions.

 

Vibrio vulnificus can also cause disease in people who eat raw or undercooked oysters and shellfish. 
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Vibrio vulnificus can also affect people who consume raw or undercooked shellfish. It's not spread from person to person, but those with symptoms should seek medical help immediately.

Recently, New York State Health Department issued guidance after similar infections led to deaths in New York and Connecticut. Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized precautions like protecting open wounds from seawater and avoiding undercooked shellfish.