The Florida Department of Health issued a warning to residents and visitors to avoid flood waters because cases of bacterial infections from Vibrio vulnificus (flesh-eating bacteria) have continued to rise following the back-to-back hurricanes that have ravished the gulf coast.
Data from the state’s health department reports 74 cases of Vibrio infections which have been responsible for 13 deaths. The rise in cases in multiple counties was due to impacts from the hurricanes, the health department has stated.
In the 2022 outbreak fueled by Hurricane Ian, the CDC also connected at least 74 cases of Vibrio in the state. Of those, 17 people died.
The Vibrio vulnificus bacteria can infect someone with an open wound or cut and cause the skin around that wound to swiftly break down. According to the CDC, many people with a Vibrio infection can get seriously ill and need intensive care or limb amputation. About 1 in 5 people with this infection die, sometimes within a day or two of becoming ill.
Storm flooded swimming pools are also at risk, the state warns.
“Excessive amounts of rain and storm surge can increase the levels of harmful bacteria in these waters,”
Vibrio vulnificus. Photo credit CDC. state officials said. “The sources of the bacteria can vary and include failing septic systems, sewer line breaks, overflowing manholes, and wildlife.”
Pool and spa owners and pool service technicians need to take steps to ensure that the water is adequately cleaned and disinfected.
According to state officials, a fully functional pool has:
• Been cleared of debris that may cause injury.
• Operating filtration and chemical treatment equipment.
• Life-saving equipment available.
• Clear water with visible drain covers on the pool floor.
• Properly balanced chemicals with disinfectant and pH at safe levels.
