Flesh-eating bacteria are devouring limbs in warming waters worldwide − here’s how to protect yourself

Warmer ocean waters are fueling the spread of the bacteria Vibrio vulnificus. Infections can lead to a rare but fatal condition called necrotizing fasciitis.

By: Bill Sullivan, Indiana University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 11, 2026

Words: 1,014

Last Updated: 6 days, 17 hours ago

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By Bill Sullivan, Indiana University

Flesh-eating bacteria sounds like the premise of a bad horror movie, but it’s a growing – and potentially fatal – threat to people in the U.S. and beyond.

Vibrio vulnificus, a type of flesh-eating bacteria that thrives in warm seawater, is once again threatening the safety of beachgoers and raw shellfish enthusiasts. To date, Louisiana has reported nine cases, with five fatalities, and Florida has reported 14 cases, with …

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