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- Chris Pugh, cleveland.com
Florida health officials have confirmed a second death this year linked to Vibrio vulnificus, a rare bacterium sometimes referred to as a “flesh-eating” infection because of its ability to cause severe wound complications and bloodstream infections in certain patients. State records show the latest fatality occurred in Marion County, according to the Florida Department of Health
The individual who died was reportedly a Marion County resident between the ages of 60 and 64. The death follows an earlier fatal case reported in Palm Beach County, making it the second Vibrio vulnificus-related death reported in Florida during 2026, AOL said
According to state health data, at least 14 infections have been reported across Florida this year. Public health officials monitor the disease closely because infections can become severe, particularly among people with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions such as liver disease
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Vibrio bacteria naturally occur in warm coastal and brackish waters. People can become infected after eating contaminated raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters, or when bacteria enter the body through cuts, scrapes or other open wounds exposed to contaminated water
Health experts note that many healthy individuals experience relatively mild illness. However, serious infections can develop when the bacterium enters the bloodstream, potentially causing septic shock, skin lesions and other life-threatening complications that may require hospitalization
Officials recommend thoroughly cooking shellfish and avoiding consumption of raw oysters. They also advise people with open wounds, recent tattoos or healing piercings to limit exposure to warm saltwater or brackish water where the bacteria may be present
State data show infections are most commonly reported during the warmer months when more residents and visitors spend time in coastal waters and consume fresh seafood. Florida has experienced periodic spikes in cases following major storm events and hurricanes, which can alter coastal water conditions and increase exposure risks
Nationally, the CDC estimates that approximately 80,000 vibriosis infections occur each year from various Vibrio species, with tens of thousands linked to contaminated food. While Vibrio vulnificus infections are comparatively rare, health experts say they remain among the most severe forms of Vibrio-related illness
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This article was produced with assistance from AI tools and reviewed by Cleveland.com staff
