The Florida Department of Health (FLDOH) has reported two additional cases of bacterial infections with Vibrio vulnificus, according to the newest data released today.
The new cases, both non-fatal, were reported in Indian River and Suwannee counties. This brings the updated total in Florida to 15, including 3 deaths.
This follows 2013, when the Sunshine State reported 41 cases and 11 deaths, the highestnumber of cases reported in the past six years. For more infectious disease news and information, visit and “like” the Infectious Disease News Facebook page
The FLDOH states, People can get infected with Vibrio vulnificus when they eat raw shellfish, particularly oysters. The bacterium is frequently isolated from oysters and other shellfish in warm coastal waters during the summer months. Since it is naturally found in warm marine waters, people with open wounds can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with seawater. There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission of Vibrio vulnificus.
