Flesh-eating Bacteria Cases Surge 800% Along U.S. Coasts

Cases of infections caused by the flesh-eating bacterium Vibrio vulnificus are rising sharply along U.S. coastlines, with an 800% increase reported along the East Coast over the past three decades, according to the CDC. This bacterium thrives in warm, brackish coastal waters and can infect humans through open wounds or consumption of raw or undercooked seafood, leading to severe illness or death in about 20% of cases. States such as Louisiana, Florida, Massachusetts, Virginia, and New York have seen significant upticks in infections, with Florida reporting record numbers in recent years. Scientists attribute the spread northward to warming oceans and rising sea levels, which create favorable conditions for the bacteria to flourish beyond its traditional Gulf Coast range. Health officials advise avoiding coastal water exposure with open wounds, thoroughly cleaning cuts, and ensuring seafood is fully cooked to reduce infection risk. People with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to serious complications from these infections.