Residents in Lee County are on alert after the first confirmed case of Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh eating bacteria, was reported this summer. Health officials across Florida are urging caution as infections linked to this dangerous bacterium have been surfacing along coastal regions statewide, with 11 confirmed cases and four deaths already this year.
Flesh Eating Bacteria: What Lee County Needs to Know
Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria found in warm, salty or brackish waters, such as the Gulf Coast and neighboring bays. With summer in full swing, water temperatures have climbed, creating conditions where the flesh eating bacteria thrives. The latest state health update, released July 17, reports a case in Lee County—alongside cases in Hillsborough, Bay, Broward, St. Johns, and several other Florida counties.
Key Points Summary
- 11 cases of Vibrio vulnificus have been confirmed in Florida in 2025 so far.
- 4 deaths have been reported this year due to flesh eating bacteria exposure in the state.
- Lee County’s new case underscores urgent health risks, especially for vulnerable individuals.
- Nearly all recent cases occurred after contact with warm, coastal waters or consumption of raw shellfish such as oysters.
- Extreme weather and warmer waters may lead to more frequent outbreaks.
Symptoms and Risks of Flesh Eating Bacteria
Symptoms develop fast and can become severe—sometimes even life-threatening. After exposure, typically through an open wound or consumption of raw/undercooked shellfish, people may experience:
- Watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
- Sudden onset of fever and chills
- Painful blisters or reddening and swelling of the skin near wounds
- Occasionally, dangerously low blood pressure and skin necrosis, which can require amputation in critical situations
Lee County’s health officials warn that individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic liver disease, diabetes, or those taking immunosuppressive medication face considerably higher risks. About one in five who develop severe bloodstream infection from Vibrio vulnificus die, sometimes within days of symptoms.
| Year | Florida Cases | Florida Deaths |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 82 | 19 |
| 2024 | 82 | 19 |
| 2025 | 11 | 4 |
Source: Florida Department of Health
Smart Steps for Lee County Residents
- Avoid swimming or wading in coastal or brackish water if you have any fresh cuts, wounds, recent surgeries, tattoos, or piercings.
- If you do go in the water, cover wounds with waterproof bandages and wash thoroughly with soap after exposure.
- Never eat raw or undercooked oysters or shellfish, as they are a common source of Vibrio vulnificus.
- Those with chronic illnesses or immune problems should be especially careful near the water or when handling raw seafood.
Early Detection and What To Do
If you develop symptoms like fever, chills, severe pain, or rapidly spreading redness/swelling after coastal water exposure or eating raw shellfish, seek urgent medical care. Quick treatment with antibiotics and surgical intervention, if needed, dramatically improves outcomes and can save lives.
The Broader Picture: Climate, Outbreaks, and Ongoing Risks
Health experts warn that climate change, rising coastal water temperatures, and severe weather events can all increase the risk of outbreaks. Flooding or storm surges push more bacteria inland, heightening hazards for vulnerable communities—like parts of Lee County.
Closing Thoughts
Lee County’s first encounter with Vibrio vulnificus this year is a crucial reminder: flesh eating bacteria are rare but extremely dangerous. Stay vigilant, take simple precautions, and check local health updates before enjoying Florida’s beautiful waters. Your experiences matter—share your thoughts, personal stories, or safety tips in the comments below to keep our community informed and protected.