Flesh-eating bacteria devour man's arm and leg in just three days
A 74-year-old Florida man developed a severe flesh-eating bacterial infection after a cut on his leg was exposed to warm Gulf Coast waters, leading to amputation of his leg and extensive skin grafting on his arm. He was diagnosed with Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium found in brackish water that can cause rapid tissue destruction. Prompt surgery and antibiotics saved his life, but the case highlights growing public health concerns due to climate change expanding the bacteria's range. The infection has a high mortality rate, especially among those with underlying health conditions or delayed treatment.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Dangerous dip Flesh-eating bacteria devour man’s arm and leg in just three days When doctors saw him, his limbs were discolored and crackling. Beth Mole – Apr 28, 2026 4:15 pm | 34 A scanning electron micrograph of Vibrio vulnificus Credit: Getty | BSIP A scanning electron micrograph of Vibrio vulnificus Credit: Getty | BSIP Text settings Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only Learn more Minimize to nav A 74-year-old man went to an emergency department in Florida with rapidly rotting limbs after jumping into the waters off Florida’s Gulf Coast. Just three days earlier, the man was otherwise healthy and active on the coast. But at one point when he jumped into the water, he got a cut on his right leg.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Ars Technica.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Ars Technica
