Florida man loses leg to deadly bacteria after fishing
In August 2025, 38-year-old Benjamin West contracted the flesh-eating bacterium Vibrio vulnificus while fishing in Port St. Joe, Florida, after which his leg began to swell and increased in size eightfold.
Consensus
- Benjamin West, a 38-year-old man from Florida, contracted Vibrio vulnificus during a fishing trip in August 2025.
- The infection occurred through a damaged area on his ankle, likely caused by a rubbed foot from a boot.
- West experienced severe pain and rapid swelling of his leg.
- He sought medical help two days after symptoms began but received inappropriate treatment.
- The infection caused tissue damage, severe swelling, and intense pain, requiring hospitalization in intensive care.
- Multiple surgeries were performed to remove damaged tissue, including skin grafts.
- Despite efforts to preserve the limb, the condition worsened and the leg continued to swell.
- West agreed to amputation below the knee.
- The amputation was planned for the week of the reports.
- Vibrio vulnificus is found in warm seawater and brackish water and can enter through broken skin or by consuming raw shellfish.
Points of divergence
- West's wife, Jeanie West, said the current pain he experiences is worse than the initial pain. — riamo
- West's leg increased in size by eight times. — vm
Coverage (2 sources)
- Florida resident to have leg amputated after infection with dangerous bacteria while fishing — РИАМО
- NYP: Florida resident's foot enlarged eight times due to carnivorous bacteria — Вечерняя Москва