Vibrio vulnificus outbreak kills 5 in Louisiana

United States — Louisiana health officials reported a surge in Vibrio vulnificus infections, a flesh-eating bacteria found in warm coastal waters. As of August 2026, the state has recorded nine cases and five deaths, exceeding the historical average of seven cases and one death. All cases were linked to wounds exposed to seawater, and all patients had underlying health conditions. The bacteria can cause necrotizing fasciitis, bloodstream infections, and death in about one in five cases. United States — Florida has also reported two deaths and 14 cases this year, and cases have been detected in United States — New York, United States — Mississippi, United States — Alabama, and United States — Connecticut. Health officials attribute the increase to warmer water temperatures and climate change, and they urge the public to avoid seawater with open wounds and to cook seafood thoroughly.