Residents in Florida are being cautioned by the Department of Health about the dangers of coming into contact with floodwaters following Hurricane Milton. The department has issued a warning stating that floodwaters can pose a serious risk of infection, particularly from Vibrio bacteria.
Vibrio infections, including the potentially life-threatening Vibrio vulnificus, can be contracted from contaminated floodwaters. These bacteria are commonly found in warm coastal waters and can cause illness if ingested or if they come into contact with open wounds.
