Five deaths linked to Vibrio vulnificus infections reported in Louisiana this year

Louisiana health officials reported Thursday that five deaths this year have been linked to infections with Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium found in warm coastal waters. The state has recorded nine cases of the infection in 2026, all of which required hospitalization and were associated with wounds exposed to seawater. Each patient had underlying health conditions such as cancer, liver disease, HIV, thalassemia or was undergoing immune-suppressing treatment.

The department noted that the state typically sees about seven cases and one death per year, but the previous year saw a sharp rise to 26 cases and five fatalities. Florida has also reported two deaths from the same bacterium so far in 2026, following higher numbers in recent years that often followed major storms.

Health experts say rising water temperatures are expanding the geographic range of Vibrio infections, with recent detections in New York's Long Island. The CDC warns that the bacterium is most active between May and October and can be contracted through open wounds exposed to seawater or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters. About 20% of those infected with Vibrio vulnificus die, and the infection can also lead to amputations.

Symptoms vary by infection type and may include fever, skin discoloration, drainage, pain, swelling, chills, low blood pressure, gastrointestinal upset, and skin lesions. The Louisiana Health Department advises people to avoid salt or brackish water, wash any exposed wounds with soap after possible contact, and ensure seafood is thoroughly cooked and kept separate from raw products.