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Florida sees increase in flesh-eating bacteria infections following hurricanes

October 23, 2024

Following hurricanes Helene and Milton, Florida experienced a significant rise in cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacterium. The Tampa Bay area saw the largest increases, with Pinellas County reporting 13 cases and Hillsborough County 7, up from no cases and 1 case respectively before the hurricanes. Statewide, confirmed cases rose from 6 in early September to 24 by the end of the month, totaling 76 for the year.

Vibrio vulnificus thrives in warm coastal waters and can proliferate with heavy rain or flooding. Infections occur through ingestion, exposure of open wounds to contaminated water, or consuming improperly cooked seafood, posing higher risks to individuals with compromised immune systems or liver disease. The Florida Department of Health advised residents to avoid floodwaters and take precautions to prevent infection. (Jaime, 2024)

CDC reports 150 to 200 cases of Vibrio vulnificus annually, with a fatality rate of about 20%, often within one to two days of infection. (Freeman et al., 2024)

Sources:

Jaime, C. (2024, October 18). CNN. Flesh-eating bacteria cases rise in Florida after hurricanes Helene and Milton. https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/18/health/dual-hurricanes-milton-and-helene-cause-flesh-eating-bacteria-cases-to-rise-in-florida/index.html

Freeman L, et al. (2024, October 22). USA Today. Flesh-eating bacteria cases rise to record level after hurricanes in Florida. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/10/22/flesh-eating-bacteria-cases-hurricanes-florida/75784065007/