Advisory Board October 16, 2024
In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, state health officials in Florida have warned that residents are at an increased risk of “life-threatening” bacterial infections and are urging people to avoid floodwaters.
The dangerous bacteria that can hide in floodwaters
Last week, the Florida Department of Health issued an advisory that warned residents to avoid floodwaters to prevent exposure to Vibrio vulnificus, a potentially life-threatening bacteria.
“Vibrio bacteria, commonly found in warm coastal waters, can cause illness when ingested or when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water,” the department warned.
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacteria that lives in warm, salty water and can cause infections by coming into contact with wounds, bites, or cuts. It can also infect...