Vibrio Vulnificus and Raw Oysters: Symptoms to Watch for and When to Go to the Emergency Room
Recent reports of deaths in Florida linked to Vibrio vulnificus are raising concerns about the risks of eating raw oysters and other undercooked shellfish. Florida has reported 22 cases of Vibrio vulnificus and four deaths in 2026, according to the Florida Department of Health’s latest update.
Also known as “flesh-eating bacteria” in some media reports, Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacterium found in warm, coastal, and brackish waters. People can become infected by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, or when an open wound is exposed to contaminated seawater or raw seafood.
What’re the symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus?
Symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus infection include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
Vibrio vulnificus can also enter the bloodstream and cause a serious, potentially life-threatening infection. Warning signs include fever and chills accompanied by dangerously low blood pressure or skin lesions.
The bacteria can also cause wound infections. Symptoms include redness, pain, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, and drainage. In severe cases, infection can damage tissue and may require surgery or amputation.
When should you go to the emergency room?
If you develop symptoms of a Vibrio vulnificus bloodstream or wound infection, seek emergency medical care immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen.
It’s especially important to tell medical professionals if you recently ate raw or undercooked seafood, or if a wound came into contact with coastal water or raw seafood. This information can help them consider Vibrio vulnificus when evaluating your symptoms.
Who’s at greater risk?
Anyone can become infected, but severe illness is more likely among people with certain underlying conditions, including liver disease, diabetes, cancer, HIV, or other illnesses that weaken the immune system.
How can you prevent a Vibrio infection?
The safest way to prevent a Vibrio vulnificus infection is to avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish. Cook oysters and other shellfish thoroughly, and avoid exposing open wounds or broken skin to warm saltwater, brackish water, or raw seafood.
If you recently ate raw oysters and develop significant gastrointestinal symptoms, fever, chills, or other concerning symptoms, contact your doctor quickly.
If you need medical assistance, Jackson Health System has several emergency rooms across South Florida. You can also visit your nearest UHealth Jackson Urgent Care center for help.