LA: Beachgoers warned after deadly “flesh-eating” bacteria kills five

Source: Fox News

“A potentially deadly ‘flesh-eating’ bacteria has killed five people in Louisiana this year, a sharp rise from the state’s typical death toll. Health officials are warning beachgoers to take extra precautions before heading into the water. Vibrio vulnificus is part of a wider group of Vibrio bacteria. Found primarily in warm, coastal waters, it can cause serious, potentially life-threatening infections when contaminated seawater enters an open wound, according to the CDC. Infections can also occur when someone eats raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters. The Louisiana Department of Health has reported nine cases and five deaths so far this year. All nine cases were linked to people entering seawater with open wounds, and all of the infected patients had existing medical conditions, officials said.” (08/07/26)

https://www.foxnews.com/health/beachgoers-warned-deadly-flesh-eating-bacteria-kills-5-southern-state