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Louisiana Reports Five Deaths From Flesh-Eating Bacteria in 2026
Just the facts
At least nine individuals in Louisiana have been hospitalized with Vibrio vulnificus infections in 2026, resulting in five deaths among patients with underlying health conditions who were exposed to seawater through open wounds. Louisiana historically averages seven cases and one death annually from the bacteria, though the state recorded 26 cases and five deaths in 2025. Health officials noted that Florida has also reported two Vibrio vulnificus deaths in 2026 following 19 fatalities in 2024 and five in 2025.
Why this is news
The Louisiana Department of Health reported on August 6, 2026, that at least five individuals in the state have died from Vibrio vulnificus infections this year.
Sources
This summary is compiled strictly from the original reporting below.