Flesh-eating bacteria are devouring limbs in warming waters worldwide − here’s how to protect yourself
Health experts are warning that warming ocean temperatures are contributing to the spread of Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria. The infection can cause necrotizing fasciitis, which is potentially fatal if not treated immediately.
Why it matters
Rising global temperatures are expanding the range of dangerous pathogens, posing new public health risks for coastal populations.
Vibrio vulnificus infections are spreading across the U.S. because of climate change. CDC/Colorized by James Gathany Flesh‑eating bacteria are devouring limbs in warming waters worldwide − here’s how to protect yourself Published: August 11, 2026 5:07pm EDT https://theconversation.com/flesh-eating-bacteria-are-devouring-limbs-in-warming-waters-worldwide-heres-how-to-protect-yourself-289554 https://theconversation.com/flesh-eating-bacteria-are-devouring-limbs-in-warming-waters-worldwide-heres-how-to-protect-yourself-289554 Link copied Share article Share article
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Flesh-eating bacteria sounds like the premise of a bad horror movie, but it’s a growing – and potentially fatal – threat to people in the U.S. and beyond.
Vibrio vulnificus , a type of flesh-eating bacteria that thrives in warm seawater, is once again threatening the safety of beachgoers and raw shellfish enthusiasts. To date, Louisiana has reported nine cases, with five fatalities , and Florida has reported 14 cases, with two fatalities . As of late June, Maryland has reported 72 cases .
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