Florida reports fourth death from Vibrio vulnificus linked to oysters
A Broward County resident aged 75-79 died after contracting the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria, marking the fourth fatality in Florida this year.
A fourth fatality from Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium often associated with raw or undercooked oysters, was recorded in Florida on Thursday. The deceased was a resident of Broward County aged between 75 and 79, though officials have not confirmed how the infection was acquired.
The Florida Department of Health said the state has logged 21 cases of the bacterium so far in 2026. Earlier deaths this year involved residents of Bay, Palm Beach and Marion counties.
"Most people get vibriosis by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters," the Florida Department of Health said.
Vibrio vulnificus thrives in warm, brackish seawater, and exposure can occur through contaminated seafood or contact with seawater when wounds are present. Bloodstream infections are fatal in about half of cases, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at markedly higher risk.
"A recent study showed that people with these pre-existing medical conditions were 80 times more likely to develop Vibrio vulnificus bloodstream infections than healthy people," Florida health officials said.
The department noted that severe weather events, such as hurricanes Helene and Ian, have contributed to higher case numbers by creating standing or flood waters that facilitate bacterial growth. Neighboring Gulf Coast states have also reported cases, with Louisiana documenting 15 infections and six deaths as of early September.