The Louisiana Department of Health is warning you of a rise in cases of vibrio vulnificus infections. Vibrio is a flesh-eating bacteria that lives in warm coastal waters. Over the last ten years, Louisiana averages seven cases and one death. Secretary Bruce Greenstein says this year has already exceeded that total, and we’re not halfway through August yet.
“So far, in 2026, nine cases of vibrio have been reported among Louisiana residents. All nine were hospitalized; five have lost their life,” Greenstein said.
While people can be infected with vibrio by eating raw seafood, especially raw Gulf oysters, all nine cases this year are related to wounds exposed to sea water, and Greenstein says all nine patients had underlying health conditions. He says certain people are at greater risk of infection.
“The risk of severe complications is highest among people who have liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV, received immune suppressant treatment, take medicine that reduces stomach acid and have recently undergone stomach surgery,” Greenstein noted.
Greenstein says if you fall into one of the groups who are at highest risk of severe complications, pay very close attention to symptoms of vibrio infection.
“The signs of vibrio wound infection include: Fever, redness, pain, swelling or warmth around the wound; skin discoloration, drainage or discharge,” Greenstein explained.
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