Two new fatalities have been reported as of Aug. 30 due to Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacterium, found in raw oysters in Louisiana.

Vibrio vulnificus is a halophilic bacterium that thrives in warm saltwater. It can cause severe infections if ingested through raw shellfish or if it enters an open wound exposed to seawater. These bacteria are most prevalent from May through October.

Already this year, Vibrio vulnificus has resulted in twenty-two hospitalizations among Louisiana residents. The state health department confirmed that two deaths were caused by eating raw oysters, and two others were linked to open wounds exposed to contaminated water.

In a segment on ABC News Live, Alok Patel, Ph.D., explained how consuming raw oysters can lead to exposure.

“Oysters get their food by filtering a lot of water, so if there are bacteria in the water, it can concentrate in their tissues,” Patel said.

This is not the first instance of illnesses linked to Louisiana oysters. In February 2025, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) issued a recall and closed Oyster Harvesting Area 3 following reports of multiple norovirus-like illnesses. According to the LDH, fifteen people fell ill after eating oysters from this area. However, unlike with Vibrio vulnificus, there were no fatalities. The state has since reopened most of Area 3, though some sections remain closed.

The best way to prevent infection is to avoid eating raw or undercooked oysters. Instead, cook them thoroughly before consumption. Always practice food safety by washing your hands and preventing cross-contamination with other foods after handling raw seafood.

If you suspect you may have a Vibrio vulnificus infection, seek medical attention immediately. More information on prevention and facts about this bacterium can be found on the LDH website or by consulting your local epidemiologist.