Florida health officials are reporting an increase in cases of the potentially deadly flesh-eating bacteria Vibrio vulnificus.

In just three weeks, four new cases have been confirmed, bringing the statewide total to 20 so far this year, up from 16 in early August. The number of deaths remains at five, reported across Bay, Broward, Hillsborough, and St. Johns counties, according to the Florida Department of Health.

Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacterium found in warm saltwater and can also be contracted from eating raw or undercooked shellfish such as oysters. Though rare, infections can cause severe illness or even death, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

What is Vibrio vulnificus?

The bacteria thrive in warm, salty water and belong to a group known as “halophilic,” meaning they require salt to survive. While most people will never become infected, those who do may experience rapid and serious health complications.

Symptoms to watch for

The infection often begins with swelling and painful blisters that can spread quickly, destroying tissue. Other possible symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Fever and chills
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Confusion or disorientation

How to protect yourself

Health experts recommend taking precautions, especially for those who are immunocompromised:

• Wear protective footwear at the beach to prevent cuts from rocks or shells.
• Do not swim with open wounds or broken skin.
• Avoid exposing cuts to warm saltwater or brackish water.
• Wear gloves when handling raw shellfish.

Shellfish safety tips

To reduce the risk of infection from shellfish:

• Never eat raw oysters or other shellfish.
• Cook shellfish thoroughly — boil until shells open, then continue boiling five more minutes, or steam until shells open, then cook another nine minutes.
• Discard any shellfish that do not open during cooking.
• Boil shucked oysters for at least three minutes or fry in oil at 375°F for at least 10 minutes.
• Refrigerate leftovers promptly and avoid cross-contamination between raw and cooked seafood.

Health officials stress that while infections are rare, taking these precautions can help protect against potentially life-threatening illness.

Follow the St. Pete-Clearwater Sun on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Google, & X

(Image credit: Craig Rubadoux/Florida Today)

PIE-Sun.com: local St. Pete-Clearwater news