Genomic diversity of <i>Vibrio</i> spp. and metagenomic analysis of pathogens in Florida Gulf coastal waters following Hurricane Ian

Abstract

Evidence suggests warming temperatures are associated with the spread of potentially pathogenic <i>Vibrio</i> spp. and the emergence of human disease globally. Following Hurricane Ian, the State of Florida reported a sharp increase in the number of reported <i>Vibrio</i> spp. infections and deaths. Hence, monitoring of pathogens, including vibrios, and environmental parameters influencing their occurrence is critical to public health. Here, DNA sequencing was used to investigate the genomic diversity of <i>Vibrio parahaemolyticus</i> and <i>Vibrio vulnificus</i>, both potential human pathogens, in Florida coastal waters post Hurricane Ian, in October 2022. Additionally, the microbial community of water samples was profiled to detect the presence of <i>Vibrio</i> spp. and other microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, protists, and viruses) present in the samples. Long-term environmental data analysis showed changes in environmental parameters during and after Ian were optimal for the growth of <i>Vibrio</i> spp. and related pathogens. Collectively, results will be used to develop predictive risk models during climate change.