WPTV

MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — Health officials in Martin County have confirmed the area's first case this year of a potentially deadly infection caused by a flesh-eating bacteria that thrives in warm brackish water. The Florida Department of Health says the bacteria, known as Vibrio Vulnificus, have contributed to five deaths across the state so far in 2025.

WATCH WPTV'S COVERAGE BELOW: How to protect yourself from flesh-eating bacteria

With life along the Treasure Coast deeply tied to the water, local residents are expressing both concern and a desire to stay informed.

“I spend a ton of time in the water, especially this particular time of the year, going into the fall when the bait fish migrate through here,” said Zachary Miller, a Martin County resident. “It is concerning. It does go

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