In the state of Florida, one of the scariest pieces of wildlife in our ecosystem isn’t able to be seen. This ghost-like killer hides right under our noses and lurks in the shadow of our waters. These creepy killers are called Vibrio Vulnificus. These are the flesh eating bacteria that show up on the news every year as one of Florida’s deadliest serial killers. Vibrio Vulnificus loves living in salt water and can be found in warm brackish water, a mix of salt and freshwater. People are most likely to contract the disease in May through October, due to the warmer water. The bacteria enter the body through open wounds in the water. 

This killer has a mortality rate of 25% when it enters through an open wound. Once the infected person becomes septic, the mortality rate rises to 50%. This bacteria is a quick killer, normally causing fatalities within the first 48 hours after infection.

With hurricane Ian recently wrecking the coast of Florida, the harsh storm surge and flooding has brought another deadly consequence. With the still warm salt-water, the flesh eating bacteria has decided to take up residence in this perfect home for them. This has caused the local residents going through their hurricane clean-up to be at risk of contracting these bacteria. This has already been seen with the cases almost doubling since Hurricane Ian hit the state. The cases went from 37 in 2022 to 65 after the hurricane, most of these happened in Lee county. However, the local resident can breathe a sigh of relief due to the receding water levels.

If you are worried about your next beach trip, here are some easy ways to prevent infection.

The main ways to prevent contracting this bacteria are common sense. Wear protective footwear in the water and make sure to bandage your cuts and to clean them. Don’t worry too much, cases of infection are uncommon and a rarity among regular circumstances. However, if you are looking for a scary Halloween story for this year, these bacteria are definitely frightening!