5 Dead From Rare Flesh-Eating Bacteria in Louisiana5 Dead From Rare Flesh-Eating Bacteria in Louisiana5 Dead From Rare Flesh-Eating Bacteria in Louisiana 

USA TODAY Network / ReutersFive people have died in Louisiana from flesh-eating bacteria infections so far in 2026, state health officials said on August 6. A total of nine cases of Vibrio vulnificus bacteria have been reported in 2026 in the state, the Louisiana Department of Health reported. All nine patients had underlying health conditions and were hospitalized after wounds had been exposed to seawater, officials said.