Florida has seen a recent increase in confirmed cases of flesh-eating bacteria following the devastating Hurricanes Helene and Milton, according to state health department data.

Data from the Florida Department of Health shows reports of flesh-eating bacteria have increased following impacts from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. According to health officials, Vibrio vulnificus normally lives in warm seawater but can pose increased risks when pushed inland by tropical cyclones.

Florida health officials noted that six Tampa Bay area counties saw an “unusual increase” in cases of Vibrio vulnificus this year, attributed to floodwaters from back-to-back