Lee County, Florida, which was devastated by Hurricane Ian last month, has seen a surge in cases of flesh-eating bacteria infections and deaths. Officials report 29 illnesses and four deaths from Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium that lives in warm brackish water and can enter the body through open cuts.
The Florida Department of Health in Lee County described the increase as 'abnormal' and linked it to exposure to floodwaters and standing water following the hurricane. The department urged residents to be cautious with open wounds and noted that sewage spills may have increased bacteria levels.
Collier County, south of Lee County, has also recorded three storm-related cases. Statewide, Florida has reported a record 11 deaths and 65 cases of Vibrio vulnificus this year, with nearly half believed to be linked to Hurricane Ian. In 2021, there were 10 deaths and 34 cases.
Vibrio vulnificus can cause necrotising fasciitis, a condition that destroys tissue. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in five patients dies, sometimes within days. The infection can lead to sepsis and may require amputation to prevent its spread.
