NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsJuly 29, 2026Hillsborough
Status of Vibrio vulnificus (Flesh-Eating Bacteria) Cases in the U.S.
Health officials have confirmed the first U.S. death of 2026 from the rare flesh-eating bacteria Vibrio vulnificus in Palm Beach County, Florida. Additional cases have been reported across Florida, Alabama, and Connecticut, prompting reminders about risks associated with saltwater exposure and raw shellfish consumption.
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsWhy It Matters
Residents in coastal areas or those consuming raw shellfish face a risk of infection from Vibrio bacteria, which can lead to severe illness or death in approximately 20% of cases.
Key Facts
- The first U.S. death from Vibrio vulnificus in 2026 occurred in Palm Beach County, Florida.
- Florida has confirmed 11 additional cases of the bacteria this year.
- The CDC estimates approximately 80,000 cases of vibriosis occur annually in the U.S.
- Roughly one in five people infected with Vibrio vulnificus die from the infection.
- Mobile County, Alabama, confirmed its first case of vibriosis on April 24, 2026.
- Connecticut reported a case of Vibrio vulnificus in February 2026 linked to raw oysters harvested outside the state.
- Vibrio bacteria typically live in warm, coastal saltwater or brackish water.
- Infection can occur through open wounds exposed to contaminated water or by consuming raw, contaminated shellfish.
Who's Mentioned
organizationFlorida Health Department“Confirmed the first death and 11 other cases of Vibrio vulnificus in Florida.”organizationConnecticut Department of Public Health“Reported a case linked to contaminated oysters in February.”organizationCenters for Disease Control (CDC)“Provides national data on vibriosis and information on transmission.”locationMobile County, Alabama“Reported its first case of vibriosis on April 24.”locationPalm Beach County“Location of the first reported Vibrio death in the U.S. for 2026.”