People with open wounds or cuts in Louisiana were warned to avoid contact with seawater because of Vibrio vulnificus cases linked to coastal waters. Nine people were hospitalized because of the bacterial infection in 2026, and five died.
Health officials said all cases reported this year involved an open wound or cut that had come into contact with coastal water. Vibrio vulnificus occurs naturally in warm coastal waters and is also commonly known as the “flesh-eating bacteria.” It can cause serious infections when it enters the body through an open wound.
People with open wounds or cuts were urged not to enter seawater. Anyone who develops rapidly spreading redness, swelling, pain or fever after contact should seek medical care without delay.
The bacterium can also be transmitted through raw or undercooked oysters and other shellfish.