Florida health officials are warning residents about an increase in flesh-eating bacteria in floodwaters following hurricanes Helene and Milton. Vibrio vulnificus can enter the body through contaminated seawater or undercooked shellfish, resulting in severe complications such as large blisters, sepsis, and shock. Individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic liver conditions are at a higher risk for severe cases. Florida has reported 74 cases and 11 deaths this year, with the highest number of cases in Pinellas County. Health officials recommend proper wound care, avoiding contact with floodwaters, and not consuming undercooked shellfish to prevent infection. This spike in cases often occurs after hurricanes.
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Florida Sees Spike In Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases After Hurricanes, Health Officials Warn
