Department of Health Warns Flood Water May Be Contaminated With Deadly Pathogen

Vibrio vulnificusPhoto byCDConUnsplash

The Florida Department of Health has shared a warning regarding potential contamination of flood waters with Vibrio vulnificus, a harmful bacteria that can cause severe illness. The advisory, shared on the Department's Facebook page, urges Floridians to exercise caution and avoid contact with flood waters, particularly following recent heavy rainfall and flooding across the state.

Vibrio vulnificus is a naturally occurring bacteria found in warm, brackish waters, and can become concentrated in flood waters. While infections are rare, according to the DOH, the bacteria poses a significant health risk especially to individuals with open wounds or weakened immune systems. Infection from this pathogen can lead to symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to severe skin infections, bloodstream infections, and, in rare cases, death.

In 2024 there have been six confirmed deaths related to this bacteria in Florida.

Table of cases and deaths since 2015 in FloridaPhoto byDOH

The Department of Health advises the public to take the following precautions:

1. Avoid Contact with Flood Waters: Refrain from wading through or coming into contact with flood waters, especially if you have open cuts or sores.
2. Protect Yourself: If contact with flood waters is unavoidable, wear protective clothing, including gloves and boots.
3. Seek Medical Attention: If you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, redness, swelling, or pain near a wound after exposure to flood waters, seek medical care immediately.