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St. George Island, FL - A 78-year-old man from Florida has become the fifth person to die from a Vibrio vulnificus infection in 2025.
The man was vacationing with his family on St. George Island in the Florida Panhandle when he allegedly contracted the bacteria through a cut on his leg while in the water.
He developed a fever the following day and underwent several surgeries, including two amputations, but passed away on August 4th.
While rare, Vibrio vulnificus infections have been increasing in Florida in recent years.
In 2023, the Florida Department of Health reported 16 cases, with this death marking the fifth fatality of the year.
The bacteria thrives in warm, salty seawater, and the risk is higher from May through October, when water temperatures rise.
In 2022, Florida saw a significant increase, with 82 reported cases and 19 deaths, linked to the effects of Hurricane Helene.
Health officials continue to warn against entering warm, brackish water with open cuts or scrapes and urge individuals, especially those with weakened immune systems, to take precautions.
Consuming raw or undercooked shellfish is another known risk factor, as the bacteria can be contracted through contaminated oysters.
Louisiana has also reported a rise in Vibrio vulnificus cases, with 17 cases and four deaths in 2023.
Health experts stress the importance of early detection and immediate medical attention, as untreated infections can lead to severe complications or death.