Dangerous bacteria ate a large part of her leg, and now she warns: 'Don't shave before entering the sea, the consequences can be terrible'

A harrowing experience has led Genevieve Gallagher to issue a stark warning about the dangers lurking in coastal waters. Gallagher, from Pensacola, Florida, lost a significant portion of her left leg below the knee after contracting a flesh-eating bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, during a family boat trip in July 2025.

She entered the water with what seemed like a minor cut, unaware of the severe consequences. Within days, her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to sepsis and multiple organ failure. "I was intubated for six days and almost lost my life," Gallagher recounted to Fox 35 in August 2026, sharing her story to prevent others from suffering a similar fate.

Doctors were forced to amputate part of her leg to save her life, leaving her with "incredible trauma" and permanent physical and emotional scars. Gallagher emphasizes that a day at the beach is "simply not worth" the risk, especially with any break in the skin, no matter how small.

Gallagher's case is not isolated. Florida health officials are observing a rise in Vibrio vulnificus infections, with 15 cases and two fatalities reported this year alone. The bacteria thrives in warm, brackish, and saltwater, particularly during summer months. While often associated with consuming raw seafood like oysters, it can cause severe infections through open wounds, including cuts, scrapes, fresh tattoos, piercings, and even insect bites.

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I was intubated for six days and almost lost my life.