Yes, that’s accurate. Recent reporting from multiple credible sources confirms that two people have died in Louisiana after consuming raw oysters contaminated with the flesh-eating bacterium Vibrio vulnificus, and state officials have indeed warned of a noticeable uptick in cases.
Here's a breakdown of what’s going on:
Verified Details
1. Two additional fatalities linked to raw oysters
As of August 28, 2025, Louisiana Department of Health officials confirmed that two more people succumbed to infections after eating oysters contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus, bringing the total number of deaths in the state this year to six. Total infections have reached 34, the highest such rate in over a decade People.com.
A local report from WBRZ likewise confirmed these deaths resulted from oysters harvested in Louisiana and consumed at separate restaurants, one in Louisiana and one in Florida WBRZ.
2. Rising trends confirmed by CBS News
CBS News reports that there have been 22 infections of Vibrio vulnificus this year among Louisiana residents, all of whom were hospitalized. Four deaths occurred among those infected, with two of those fatalities clearly linked to raw oyster consumption; the other two were associated with exposure to contaminated seawater via open wounds CBS News.
Historically, Louisiana averages about seven infections and one death per year, so this year’s figures represent a significant spike CBS News.
3. Broader context of increasing cases
Health experts attribute the surge to warming coastal waters, which create ideal conditions for Vibrio vulnificus, especially between May and October TIMEWikipediaNew York Post. Across the Gulf Coast, several states, including Florida, North Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi have also reported increases in infections and deaths TIMENew York Post.
Summary Table
| Claim | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Two people died in Louisiana after contracting flesh-eating bacteria from raw oysters | Confirmed | Official reports confirm these deaths tied to Vibrio vulnificusinfections from raw oyster consumption People.comWBRZCBS News. |
| State officials warned of an increase in cases | Confirmed | Louisiana officials noted a surge in infections compared to historical averages, prompting public warnings CBS NewsLouisiana IlluminatorTIME. |
What to Know & Precautions
How Vibrio vulnificus spreads: This bacterium thrives in warm, brackish coastal waters and can infect people through open wounds or by consuming contaminated raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters TIMEWikipedia.
Severity of infection: It can cause serious illnesses, including necrotizing fasciitis (tissue-eating), sepsis, and in severe cases, death. Around 20–50% of these infections are fatal, especially in vulnerable individuals (e.g., those with liver disease or weakened immune systems) People.comTIMEWikipedia.
An unusual spike: Louisiana’s spike to 34 infections and six deaths significantly exceeds its typical yearly figures of seven infections and one death People.comCBS News.
Protective advice: Health authorities recommend avoiding raw or undercooked oysters, especially during warm months; practicing good food safety; and keeping open wounds away from coastal waters. Particular caution is urged for individuals with chronic health conditions TIMENew York PostDelish.
Bottom line: Your statement is backed by multiple reliable sources, it is true that two people have recently died in Louisiana after consuming raw oysters contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus, and state officials have publicly warned of a significant increase in related cases this year.
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