Lee County Reports Fourth Flesh-Eating Bacteria Infection of 2025

Lee County has confirmed a fourth case of Vibrio vulnificus this year. The Florida Department of Health made the announcement. The county now leads the state in reported infections from the flesh-eating bacteria in 2025.

Vibrio vulnificus thrives in warm salt and brackish water. People can contract the infection through open wounds or by consuming contaminated raw seafood.

Dr. Toshi Urakawa teaches at Florida Gulf Coast University's Water School. He said the bacteria can be deadly. "I'm very glad to see that people enjoy the beach and the beauty of the water in Florida. However, if you have something wrong, you should go to a hospital as soon as possible," said Dr. Toshi Urakawa, according to Gulf Coast News. "These issues have a high death rate."

Experts say picking up the bacteria is rare. Beachgoers at Fort Myers Beach told the outlet they plan to take extra precautions after hearing about the latest infection.

Terry Ruppert said she would have thought about putting her feet in the water. "I have a little cut kind of becoming a scab, but I would have thought about putting my feet in," said Terry Ruppert per Gulf Coast News. "It is a little cooler today, so it's not like I'm rushing in because I'm so hot, but it is definitely a concern."

A man in Collier County got the bacteria in September. He went to the hospital after noticing discolored skin and extreme pain shooting through his calf.

Visitor Janice McCabe said she still plans to go in the water. "I feel comfortable about it because, you know, I know these things have come up over the years. Honestly, we've got big family down here, and I don't know anybody that's ever come down with it."

As of Dec. 5, 2025, 33 people have gotten Vibrio vulnificus in Florida. Five people have died from the infection statewide. No deaths have happened in the county.

The Florida Department of Health told Gulf Coast News that information about where and when the bacteria was picked up is confidential.