Florida Reports 14 Vibrio Cases, Including 1 Death, as Woman Warns After Losing Leg
Updated
Updated · KKTV · Aug 12
Florida Reports 14 Vibrio Cases, Including 1 Death, as Woman Warns After Losing Leg
3 articles · Updated · KKTV · Aug 12
Summary
Florida has logged 14 Vibrio vulnificus infections this year, state health data show, with Marion County reporting two cases including one fatality and Brevard County's only case involving a child aged 10 to 14.
Doctors say the rare bacteria typically infects people through raw or undercooked shellfish—especially oysters—or when open wounds contact warm saltwater or brackish water.
Genevieve Gallagher, infected last July after boating with a cut on her leg, said the illness led to the loss of much of her left leg below the knee and nearly killed her.
Her warning echoes broader concern along U.S. coasts, where officials have tied rising Vibrio risk to warmer coastal waters and urge people to avoid water exposure with even small cuts.