Vibrio Alert: Gulf Coast Health Warning | US News

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

Louisiana’s facing a dangerous spike in Vibrio vulnificus cases—nicknamed “flesh-eating bacteria”—with nine confirmed infections and five deaths this year, far outpacing the usual seven cases and one death over a decade. This heat-loving, saltwater bacterium thrives in Gulf Coast waters and enters the body through raw shellfish or open wounds from swimming. High-risk groups include those with liver disease, diabetes, or weakened immunity. Health officials urge caution: cover cuts before entering water, cook seafood thoroughly (you can’t tell if it’s contaminated), and seek medical help…