Louisiana Reports Five Vibrio Deaths This Year, Warns Coastal Swimmers
Louisiana health officials reported at least nine Vibrio vulnificus infections and five deaths so far this year, all tied to seawater-exposed wounds, the state announced Thursday.[1]
Officials warned people to avoid salt or brackish water if they have open cuts and to thoroughly cook shellfish to reduce the risk of infection.[1]
Over the past 10 years, Louisiana averaged seven Vibrio vulnificus cases and one death per year, but the state recorded 26 cases and five deaths in 2025. Florida has already reported two Vibrio deaths in 2026 after spikes of 19 deaths in 2024 and five in 2025. Rising coastal water temperatures are expanding the bacteria's range northward, and Vibrio was detected this spring in coastal waters off Long Island, New York.
State health officials said they will continue monitoring coastal waters and urged anyone who develops fever, swelling, or severe skin pain after seawater exposure to seek immediate medical care.[1]
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📌 Key Facts
- On Thursday, August 6, 2026, Louisiana reported at least nine Vibrio vulnificus cases and five deaths so far this year, all from seawater-exposed wounds.
- Over the past 10 years, Louisiana has averaged seven Vibrio vulnificus cases and one death annually, but saw 26 cases and five deaths in 2025.
- Florida has recorded two Vibrio vulnificus deaths in 2026, following 19 deaths in 2024 and five in 2025, with higher infections reported after major storms.
- Experts say rising water temperatures are expanding Vibrio vulnificus risk northward, with the bacteria found this spring in coastal waters off Long Island, New York.
- Louisiana health officials advise avoiding salt or brackish water with open wounds and thoroughly cooking shellfish to reduce infection risk.
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