Louisiana Reports 5 Deaths, Dozens Hospitalized in Severe 'Flesh-Eating Bacteria' Outbreak

Louisiana health officials have confirmed that five people have died and at least 26 have been hospitalized this year amid a severe outbreak of vibriosis, an infection caused by the flesh-eating bacteria Vibrio vulnificus.

The Louisiana Department of Health confirmed the fifth fatality on September 16, stating that the coastal state «continues to see a higher number of Vibrio cases and deaths than are typically reported.» The severity of the outbreak is underscored by the fact that all 26 known patients have required hospitalization. This year's numbers represent a dramatic increase from 2024, when the state recorded ten cases and only one death for the entire year.

Vibrio vulnificus bacteria thrive in warm saltwater and brackish water (a mix of fresh and saltwater). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), infection typically occurs in one of two ways:

1. Consuming contaminated seafood: Eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters where the bacteria can concentrate, is a primary cause. Two of the recent deaths in Louisiana were linked to the consumption of tainted oysters.
2. Wound exposure: The bacteria can enter the body through an open wound, cut, scrape, or even a recent tattoo or piercing that comes into contact with contaminated water. Officials report that 85% of those sickened had this type of exposure.

While some infections result in milder symptoms like watery diarrhea, nausea, and fever, wound and bloodstream infections are far more dangerous. They can lead to necrotizing fasciitis—the «flesh-eating» disease that destroys tissue—as well as dangerously low blood pressure and severe skin blistering. In critical cases, the CDC notes that amputation of limbs may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save a patient's life.

While individuals with pre-existing conditions such as liver disease or cancer are at a higher risk for severe illness, the Louisiana Department of Health warns that «anyone can get a Vibrio infection» and is urging the public to take precautions.

To stay safe, health officials advise the following: