Travelers heading to Florida this summer may have to contend with an invisible threat while on the shoreline. The Florida Health Department has confirmed to ABC News and several other news outlets that the state is dealing with an outbreak of the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria in the saltwater along the shoreline.

Although the Centers for Disease Control claim illness and death from bacteria is rare, experts are warning this year's outbreak could be the deadliest in recent history.


ABC News confirms that at least four people have died from complications of the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria this year. In addition, the bacteria can cause additional health problems, including necrosed skin tissue that requires intensive treatments or amputation in extreme cases.

While the disease is rare, health officials are still making the public well aware of the effects of Vibrio vulnificus. Anyone planning a trip to Florida or the states bordering the Gulf of Mexico need to become aware of the hazards and risks that lie just off the shoreline.

What is Vibrio vulnificus?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria from the same family as cholera. The Vibrio vulnificus bacteria lives in salt water, and thrives in warmer water temperatures (between 68 and 95 degrees Farenheit). Health officials from the State of Florida noted to ABC News that the bacteria is most active between May and October.

While Vibrio vulnificus infections are uncommon, they can still affect anyone who has contact with salt water.

According to the Florida Health Department, 32 people contracted Vibrio vulnificus in 2014, leading to seven deaths.

How do I contract Vibrio vulnificus?

Vibrio vulnificus can be contracted in one of two primary ways. The most common way is through eating raw seafood from waters that contain Vibrio vulnificus. Once the raw items are consumed, travelers are at risk of obtaining the bacterial infection.

Second, travelers who make direct contact with the waters infested by Vibrio vulnificus are at risk of obtaining a bacterial infection. Travelers who either have an open wound when they make contact with the water or obtain a wound from a fish or other debris while in the water have the highest risk of obtaining the infection.

Who is most vulnerable to Vibrio vulnificus?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are two types of travelers who are most susceptible to a Vibrio vulnificus infection. First, those travelers who are immunocompromised or suffer from chronic liver disease are at high risk for contracting Vibrio vulnificus.

In addition, those who make contact with waters containing Vibrio vulnificus are at particular risk as well. When Vibrio vulnificus enters an open wound, an infection can lead to skin breakdown and necrosed skin tissue. 

What should I do if I think I have Vibrio vulnificus?

Anyone who is concerned about their exposure to Vibrio vulnificus should contact a doctor immediately. The sooner the disease is detected, the sooner treatment can begin. The Centers for Disease Control report starting a control regimen sooner rather than later can result in a greater survival rate for those infected. Furthermore, the CDC also says that because Vibrio vulnificus is an acute disorder, there are no long-term effects after treatment is successful.

How can I minimize my exposure to Vibrio vulnificus?

Travelers can minimize their exposure to Vibrio vulnificus in two different ways. First, those who suffer from diseases of the immune system, chronic liver disease, or open wounds should avoid contact with saltwater, especially throughout the Gulf of Mexico. In addition, those who suffer from either disease should avoid raw seafood and shellfish. Finally, those preparing fresh seafood and shellfish should practice good food safety habits in order to prevent cross-contamination.

While Vibrio vulnificus is nothing to take lightly, contracting this disease can be prevented. With knowledge and preventative measures, you can make sure your next trip to Florida and the Gulf of Mexico doesn't end with a trip to the emergency room.

Ed. Note: The content contained on this page is not intended to be and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. For more information about medical content on About.com, see our Medical Review Board policies.