Louisiana reports five Vibrio vulnificus deaths, urges caution in coastal waters

The Louisiana Department of Health said five people have died this year after contracting Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium that can cause severe infections. Nine residents have been hospitalized with the illness, all of whom had exposure to seawater and underlying health conditions.

State officials warned residents to take precautions when swimming in coastal waters, especially from May through October when the bacteria are most prevalent. The bacterium can enter the body through open wounds or by consuming raw, contaminated shellfish.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates about 80,000 vibriosis cases nationwide annually, with Vibrio vulnificus responsible for a high fatality rate—approximately one in five infections result in death. People with compromised immune systems, liver disease, diabetes, or those taking acid-reducing medication are at greater risk.

Health authorities advised covering any open wounds with waterproof bandages, avoiding coastal water contact if wounds are present, and practicing safe seafood handling—keeping raw and cooked foods separate, cooking seafood thoroughly, and washing hands after handling raw fish.