Florida boat captain George Billiris narrowly escaped death after contracting Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria, from a minor leg cut while fishing. The infection rapidly spread, requiring three weeks of treatment to prevent amputation. Experts warn that rising ocean temperatures due to climate change are expanding the bacteria's range, increasing infection risks, especially during hurricane season. Cases are rising in states like Louisiana, Florida, and North Carolina, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment of this potentially fatal infection, which can also spread through raw seafood.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.