Florida Man Battles Flesh-Eating Bacteria After Bahamas Trip

Brian Roush nearly died from a rare and deadly infection after a minor ankle injury while on vacation.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A 62-year-old Florida man named Brian Roush is recovering after contracting a severe case of necrotizing fasciitis, also known as flesh-eating bacteria, during a recent trip to the Bahamas. Roush's condition rapidly deteriorated after he scraped his ankle, leading to organ failure, septic shock, and doctors giving him less than a 10% chance of survival. After multiple surgeries and intensive treatment, Roush is now on the slow road to recovery, though he still faces significant challenges.

Why it matters

Necrotizing fasciitis is an extremely rare but life-threatening bacterial infection that can spread rapidly and lead to organ failure and death if not treated quickly. Roush's case highlights the dangers of this condition and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention for any concerning symptoms, especially after traveling or sustaining an injury.

The details

Roush and his girlfriend were celebrating the new year with a trip to the Bahamas when he scraped his ankle. In the days after, he participated in typical island activities like swimming with pigs. When the couple returned to Florida, Roush's condition quickly worsened, with his ankle erupting in blisters. He was rushed to the hospital on January 4th, where doctors suspected necrotizing fasciitis and performed emergency surgery. Roush's organs began to fail due to septic shock, and he was placed in an induced coma on life support. Doctors removed most of the flesh from his lower calf, and he also suffered heart damage and secondary infections from his extended hospital stay.

  • Roush scraped his ankle while on vacation in the Bahamas.
  • Roush's condition rapidly deteriorated after returning to Florida on January 4th, 2026.
  • Doctors gave Roush less than a 10% chance of survival when he was first admitted to the hospital.

The players

Brian Roush

A 62-year-old Florida man who contracted a severe case of necrotizing fasciitis, also known as flesh-eating bacteria, while on vacation in the Bahamas.

Brittany Roush

Brian Roush's daughter, who spoke to local media about her father's condition and recovery.

Broward Health

The hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida where Brian Roush was treated for his flesh-eating bacteria infection.

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What they’re saying

“His ankle had 'erupted into blisters right in front of them, so the doctor suspected flesh-eating bacteria, necrotizing fasciitis, got him into emergency surgery.”

— Brittany Roush, Daughter of Brian Roush (WFLA)

“He can't walk, and he can't use most of his limbs right now.”

— Brittany Roush, Daughter of Brian Roush (WFLA)

What’s next

Roush has cleared the infection and his organ function is improving, though he still requires daily dialysis for his kidneys. The family is now arranging his transfer to a long-term rehabilitation facility so he can relearn to use his limbs.

The takeaway

Roush's case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of necrotizing fasciitis, a rare but life-threatening bacterial infection that can rapidly spread and lead to organ failure and death if not treated immediately. His story underscores the importance of seeking prompt medical care for any concerning symptoms, especially after travel or sustaining an injury.