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While an estimated 80,000 people are infected with vibriosis every year in the U.S., some strains of the bacteria can cause severe, life-threatening infections.
FLORIDA, USA — Florida reported the state and country’s first death from flesh-eating bacteria of the year.
The bacteria, called vibrio vulnificus, is naturally found in warm marine waters and can be contracted by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC said an estimated 80,000 people are infected with vibriosis per year in the U.S., which can be caused by several different strains of vibrio bacteria.
The Florida Department of Health said the person who died was between 80 and 84 years old, and died in Palm Beach County in June.
There have been 11 recorded cases of vibrio vulnificus in the state this year. Florida recorded 33 cases and five deaths in 2025.
According to the CDC, vibrio vulnificus can cause severe, life-threatening infections. About 1 in 5 people with that infection will die, which can happen within a day or two of becoming ill, the CDC said.