Infections with Vibrio vulnificus are still rare but "this is certainly not normal," an expert in water diseases at the University of Florida said.

Jutla also explained that Vibrio vulnificus infections often rise following hurricanes, which stir up bacteria in floodwaters. Florida recorded 82 cases last year, a number that may have been worsened by the “extremely active” hurricane season, as the bacteria can persist in floodwaters caused by storms.