LOUISIANA, (KLFY) -- The Louisiana Department of Health confirmed the fifth death from Vibrio vulnificus this year, as the state continues to see an unusually high number of cases.

Vibrio bacteria, which naturally inhabit coastal waters, are more prevalent from May to October when water temperatures rise. These bacteria can cause illness if an open wound is exposed to infected waters or if raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters, is consumed.

In 2025, Louisiana has reported 26 cases of Vibrio vulnificus, all of which required hospitalization, and five of these cases resulted in death. This marks a significant increase compared to the average of 10 cases and one death reported annually over the past decade.

Of the 26 cases reported this year, 85% involved exposure to seawater th

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