The primary risk is to individuals exposed to floodwaters or storm surges, particularly those with open wounds. Vibrio vulnificus infections can lead to severe complications, including necrotising fasciitis, commonly referred to as 'flesh-eating disease.' The CDC's data indicates that 36 out of 38 patients required hospitalisation, underscoring the potential severity of these infections. The risk is heightened in areas where hurricanes and tropical storms cause extensive flooding, pushing brackish water inland and increasing human exposure to the bacteria.