Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases Rising in Florida in Wake of Hurricane Milton

Flesh-eating bacteria cases are on the rise in Florida in the wake of Hurricane Milton. USA Today has the news.

There have been “74 cases of Vibrio vulnificus in 2024, according to the latest data from the Florida Department of Health, equaling the record set in 2022 when Hurricane Ian and other devastating storms hit the state. Of this year's cases, the data also shows that there have been 13 deaths statewide linked to Vibrio vulnificus infections.”

Vibrio vulnificus “thrives in warm floodwaters when hurricanes and tropical storms push a mix of fresh and saltwater upstream into canals and rivers. The water carries pollutants, sewage and debris. The bacteria can infect a person with an open wound, such as a cut, and can cause the skin and soft tissue around the wound to quickly break down. Treatment may require limb amputation to stop the rapid flesh deterioration, and the infection can be fatal.”

Nationwide, “about 150 to 200 Vibrio vulnificus cases are reported to the Centers for Disease Control each year. About one in five people die from this infection, sometimes within one to two days of becoming ill, according to the CDC.” People with “compromised immune systems, liver disease, or open wounds are at higher risk for Vibrio vulnificus.”

To avoid contracting Vibrio vulnificus, the Florida Department of Health suggests to “avoid swimming or wading in floodwaters, standing water, seawater, and brackish water;” to “cover open cuts or wounds with waterproof bandages” if they come into contact with those types of water; and to “wash skin and any open cuts or wounds thoroughly with soap and clean water after contact with floodwaters.”