Fourth Florida Resident Dies from Vibrio vulnificus Linked to Raw Oysters
A Broward County resident aged 75-79 became the fourth fatality in Florida this year from Vibrio vulnificus infection, a bacterium associated with raw or undercooked shellfish.
Florida health officials reported that a Broward County resident between 75 and 79 years old died from a Vibrio vulnificus infection, marking the fourth death in the state this year. The department recorded 21 cases of the bacterium in 2026, with earlier fatalities occurring in Bay, Palm Beach and Marion counties. While the exact source of infection for the latest victim remains unknown, the department notes that most cases arise after consuming raw or undercooked oysters.
Vibrio vulnificus is naturally present in warm coastal and brackish waters and can also enter the body through cuts or abrasions exposed to contaminated water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that recent tattoos, piercings or open wounds increase risk for swimmers, boaters and others working near water.
Oysters filter large volumes of seawater, allowing the bacteria to accumulate without altering the shellfish’s appearance, taste or smell. Health officials advise cooking oysters thoroughly and recommend that individuals at higher risk avoid raw or undercooked shellfish.
Ingested infections typically cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever. Wound infections may lead to fever, swelling, discharge and, in severe cases, bloodstream involvement with chills, low blood pressure and skin lesions. The CDC states that antibiotics can treat the infection, but it can progress rapidly, sometimes leading to death within days.