Louisiana has recorded nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus and five deaths in 2026, well above its 10-year average of seven cases and one death a year, the state health department said Aug. 6.
All nine patients were hospitalized, and all had underlying health conditions. Every 2026 case stemmed from a wound exposed to brackish or salt water rather than from eating contaminated seafood, according to the Louisiana Department of Health.
Vibrio vulnificus occurs naturally in warm coastal waters, with concentrations highest from May through October. It can cause severe wound infections — including necrotizing, or “flesh-eating,” infections — as well as bloodstream infections and gastrointestinal illness.
People can be infected in two ways: through open wounds exposed to brackish or salt water, or by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. Wound infections can progress quickly, with symptoms including fever, redness, swelling, skin discoloration and drainage. Bloodstream infections can bring dangerously low blood pressure and blistering skin lesions.
The department said people with liver disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV or thalassemia face the highest risk of severe illness, as do those who are immunosuppressed, take stomach acid-reducing medication or have had recent stomach surgery.
Vibrio vulnificus is among the most lethal waterborne pathogens. About 1 in 5 people who are infected die, sometimes within a day or two, according to the CDC.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
