Vibrio Surge in Louisiana | Philadelphia News

Philadelphia News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 9, 2026 · 1m

Louisiana’s facing a deadly spike in Vibrio vulnificus infections—nine confirmed cases this year, five dead—with fatality rates as high as 20%. This strain, nicknamed “flesh-eating bacteria,” thrives in warm Gulf waters and can enter your body through even tiny cuts or piercings. If you’ve been near coastal waters, wash wounds immediately and watch for fever, chills, or darkening skin. Oysters are a major risk—never assume they’re safe—and always wash hands after handling raw shellfish. Cooked oysters with open shells? Discard them. Health officials are urging extreme caution at beaches and…