The Louisiana Department of Health says a fifth person has died from the deadly flesh-eating bacteria named Vibrio vulnificus.
The Department of Health says it continues to see a higher number of cases and deaths than are typically reported.
The bacteria naturally live in coastal waters and are found in higher numbers from May to October, when water temperatures are warmer.
The bacteria can cause illness when an open wound is exposed to coastal waters or when a person eats raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters.
So far in 2025, 26 cases have been reported among Louisiana residents, and all of these patients were hospitalized.
Over the previous 10 years, an average of 10 cases and one death have been reported annually in Louisiana.
READ MORE:Fifth person in Louisiana dies from flesh-eating bacteria
