‘Flesh-eating’ bacteria cases increasing in Florida and other parts of US southeast — what to watch for

Cases of “flesh-eating” bacteria are increasing along the southeastern coasts of the United States, with multiple deaths reported this year. At least five people in Florida, four in Louisiana, and one in North Carolina’s Outer Banks have died from infections that can cause necrotizing wounds.



Florida has recorded 16 cases so far this year. Louisiana has reported 17 cases, more than its annual average in past years. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services confirmed to NBC News that the state has seen seven cases so far. Mississippi has seen three cases so far this year.



In Florida, early deaths linked to the infection were reported in counties spread across the coastline, including Bay County in the Panhandle, Hillsborough County on the Gulf Coast, Broward County in Southeastern Florida, and St. Johns County just south of Jacksonville.

What is ‘flesh-eating’ bacteria?

The infections are caused by Vibrio bacteria, which naturally live in certain coastal waters. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says Vibrio numbers are higher from May through October, when water temperatures are warmer.



Coastal waters include both salt water and brackish water, a mix of salt water, and fresh water often found where rivers meet the ocean.



The CDC says about a dozen species of Vibrio can cause a human illness called vibriosis. In the United States, the most common are Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Vibrio vulnificus, and Vibrio alginolyticus.



Vibrio vulnificus is the most dangerous. According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 people with a Vibrio vulnificus infection die.

Why infections are up

Antarpreet Jutla, an engineering professor at the University of Florida, told NBC News that infections are still rare but “something is off this year.” He explained that Vibrio vulnificus infections tend to increase after hurricanes.



Last year, Florida recorded a total of 82 cases, which Jutla said may have been made worse by an “extremely active” hurricane season. The bacteria can linger in hurricane floodwaters.



The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reported Thursday that this year’s hurricane season is still expected to be above normal as the U.S. enters its peak period.

How people get infected and symptoms to watch out for

The CDC says most people get vibriosis by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters. Some get infected when an open wound is exposed to coastal waters.



Symptoms of a Vibrio infection can vary depending on how it affects the body. Digestive tract infections may cause watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills.

Bloodstream infections can lead to fever, chills, dangerously low blood pressure, and blistering skin lesions. Wound infections may cause fever, redness, pain, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, and fluid discharge.