Vibrio vulnificus

Rising cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections in coastal waters and increased health risks are linked to Trump administration cuts in health programs and ocean monitoring. The administration reduced investments in agencies tracking pathogens, leading to challenges in addressing emerging threats like flesh-eating bacteria, screwworm reemergence, and malaria vulnerabilities.

A 17-year-old Florida teen, Joziah Thompson, contracted Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria, after swimming with siblings. He required hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and ongoing treatment. His mother advocates for increased awareness of the bacteria in coastal waters.

A 17-year-old Florida teen, Joziah Thompson, contracted Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria, after swimming at Lion’s Park with his siblings. He required hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and an aggressive antibiotic regimen. His mother is advocating for public awareness about the bacteria’s risks in coastal waters.

A 17-year-old Florida teen contracted Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria, after swimming with siblings, leading to hospitalization and surgeries. His mother advocates for public awareness on bacterial risks in local waters. A GoFundMe supports the family's medical expenses.

Vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria known as 'flesh-eating,' has been detected in coastal waters near East Hampton and Sagaponac on Long Island. Experts warn of risks from open wounds but emphasize serious infections are rare, advising caution rather than panic. The bacteria's presence has been linked to rising water temperatures and is not new to the region.