Florida Reports Rising Flesh-Eating Bacteria Cases Including Near-Leg Loss

In Florida, the number of Vibrio vulnificus, commonly known as flesh-eating bacteria, cases has risen to 25 in 2025, with new cases reported in Escambia and Volusia counties. Genevieve Gallagher, a 49-year-old Florida mother, contracted the bacteria after swimming in Santa Rosa Sound off Pensacola Beach, leading to severe infection that nearly resulted in the loss of her leg. After developing symptoms days later, she was hospitalized with septic shock and underwent multiple surgeries to remove infected tissue down to the bone. The bacteria typically infects individuals through open cuts exposed to warm seawater and can lead to rapid skin and tissue deterioration, sometimes requiring amputation to prevent fatal outcomes. Florida has reported five deaths so far this year linked to Vibrio vulnificus, consistent with previous years' trends. Gallagher's case highlights the serious risks of Vibrio vulnificus infections and the challenges in treating this aggressive bacterial infection.