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FLORIDA - Thirteen people have died from Vibrio vulnificus infections in Florida this year, following a surge in cases linked to Hurricane Helene.
Florida health authorities have confirmed 74 cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections in 2024, compared with 46 cases and 11 deaths in 2023.
The number of Vibrio vulnificus infections in Florida has resulted in 13 deaths.
This alarming surge is primarily attributed to Hurricane Helene, which devastated the state last month.
Hurricane Helene's destructive impact created ideal conditions for the proliferation of Vibrio vulnificus.
Vibrio vulnificus, a naturally occurring bacterium found in warm coastal waters, can cause severe illness when ingested or through open wounds.
The bacteria thrive in brackish and saltwater environments, and their concentration increases following heavy rainfall and flooding.
Counties like Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota experienced a significant rise in cases due to the hurricane's aftermath.
Once infected, Vibrio vulnificus can lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection that causes the breakdown of skin and soft tissue.
In severe cases, amputation may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
While Vibrio vulnificus can be fatal, public health authorities emphasize that a type of Streptococcus is the most common cause of necrotizing fasciitis in the United States.