As Hurricane Milton approached Florida in early October, authorities issued warnings to protect the public. The storm, initially categorized as a Category 5 but making landfall as a Category 3, triggered widespread shutdowns across the state.
“The Florida Department of Health (Department) urges residents and visitors to avoid floodwaters and prevent exposure to Vibrio in anticipation of flooding and heavy rain caused by Hurricane Milton,” Florida Health reported on October 8, 2024. This warning followed concerns about Vibrio vulnificus, a deadly, flesh-eating bacterium that thrives in warm, brackish water and can become life-threatening when it infects open wounds.
Reports now indicate a rise in Vibrio vulnificus cases across the state. According to U.S. News, “Florida had just six confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus before Hurricane Helene arrived in late September, but that number surged to 24 by the end of the month.” Since then, two hurricanes have caused the total number of cases to skyrocket to 74, with 13 resulting in death in 2024.
The Florida Department of Health also shared that approximately “1 in 5” individuals infected with Vibrio vulnificus die each year. The bacteria is commonly found in warm coastal waters and can infect individuals through ingestion or open wounds exposed to contaminated water, especially following significant flooding events.
As Hurricane Milton closely followed Hurricane Helene, most of Florida shut down, including popular tourist spots. Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort temporarily closed their doors on October 9 and 10 while guests were instructed to stay indoors. Even after reopening, the impact of the storm was evident, with visible damage throughout the parks.
Aside from the Vibrio threat, health officials also cautioned Floridians about the spread of West Nile Virus following a confirmed case in Orange County. Residents and tourists were urged to avoid areas where mosquitoes, particularly in standing water, could breed.
How do you feel about these recent warnings and the potential health risks they pose to Central Florida?