Florida is grappling with a surge in cases of a rare, flesh-eating bacteria following recent hurricane activity, resulting in 13 reported deaths this year.
Health authorities have confirmed 74 cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections in 2024, a significant increase from the 46 cases and 11 deaths recorded in 2023.
The Florida Department of Health has linked this alarming rise to Hurricane Helene, which struck the state last month, bringing powerful winds and historic storm surges.
The storm, which later moved into southern Appalachia, caused devastating flooding and landslides in North Carolina, leading to approximately 100 fatalities.
Counties such as Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota have reported unusual increases in infections due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene.
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Additionally, Hurricane Milton, which hit Florida as a category 3 storm on October 9, has also contributed to the situation, with at least two dozen deaths attributed to the storm.
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacterium found in warm, brackish seawater and can cause severe illness when ingested or when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water.
After heavy rainfall and flooding, the concentration of this bacteria can increase, especially in coastal areas.
The infection can lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe condition where the skin and soft tissue break down.
In some cases, amputation of the infected limb may be necessary to prevent further spread.
Public health officials stress that while some Vibrio infections can result in flesh-eating symptoms, they note that the term can be misleading; the bacteria do not destroy healthy skin.
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Florida has a history of Vibrio outbreaks following extreme weather events, with a similar spike occurring in 2022 after Hurricane Ian.
