The Florida Department of Health has warned residents and visitors to avoid floodwaters as cases of flesh-eating bacteria continue to rise following back-to-back hurricanes that ravaged the Gulf Coast.

In a press release, officials said there is an increased risk of bacterial Vibrio infections like Vibrio vulnificus, which can be life-threatening.

State health department data shows 70 cases of Vibrio bacteria were reported in 2024, causing 11 deaths. Compared to 2022 numbers, the statistics are similar to those from Hurricane Ian which damaged Collier and Lee counties, FOX 13 in Tampa reported.

The increase in cases in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lee, Pasco, Pinellas and Sarasota counties, the Health Department noted, was due to the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

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According to the Ministry of Health, Vibrio bacteria are commonly found in warm coastal waters and can cause illness when ingested or when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water.

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“After heavy rains and flooding, the concentration of these bacteria may increase, especially in brackish and salt water environments,” the health ministry said.

Officials said people with weakened immune systems, liver disease or open wounds are at higher risk of contracting Vibrio vulnificus.

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If contact occurs, a person may experience diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, chills, faster heart rate, confusion, or disorientation.

The Department of Health suggests anyone experiencing these symptoms after being exposed to floodwaters should seek immediate medical attention.

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To avoid contracting the flesh-eating bacterial infection, the Department of Health suggests not swimming in flood water, stagnant water, seawater, or brackish water, and covering cuts and open wounds with waterproof bandages.

Along with an increase in potentially deadly bacteria, FOX 13 reported that scientists are monitoring an increase in Karenia brevis, also known as the algae that produces red tide, along the Gulf Coast.

After Hurricane Milton made landfall in Sarasota, satellites began detecting significant levels of chlorophyll, which can trigger red tides.

Although the toxins have the ability to cause respiratory symptoms in an individual, exposure to Karenia brevis is not known to result in human death, although it can be detrimental to marine life.

Original article source: Cases of flesh-eating bacteria increase in Florida after back-to-back hurricanes