Health experts are warning of a rise in flesh-eating bacteria cases after Hurricane Isaias makes landfall.

University of Florida microbiologist Chamteut Oh says vibrio vulnificus levels in coastal waters increased after Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. He expects a similar pattern this time.

‘That could be a potential risk we should be worried about,’ Oh said of the threat from Isaias.

The bacteria lives in raw or undercooked seafood, saltwater and brackish water. Flooding spreads brackish water into places it does not usually reach.

People working in floodwaters during and after storms are at risk. The bacteria can enter through open wounds.

Vibrio vulnificus is rare but can be life-threatening. Some infections lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection that kills tissue around wounds. Without treatment, death can occur in days.

Experts advise staying out of floodwater when possible and covering cuts and wounds.

Cases are rare, but the consequences can be severe. Health officials track vibrio infections every hurricane season along the Gulf Coast.

The warning is simple: stay out of floodwater, cover any cuts, and seek care quickly if a wound becomes red, swollen or painful after exposure.