Health officials warn of 'flesh-eating bacteria'

Health officials have blamed naturally occurring “flesh-eating” bacteria in local waters for one death and another illness in Sarasota County this month.

The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County Wednesday issued a warning of the potential for exposure to Vibrio vulnificus through open wounds in saltwater or brackish water bodies, or through the consumption of raw shellfish.

The bacteria can cause serious illness, and those with chronic health conditions, particularly liver disease, are at an increased risk for blistering skin lesions, nausea, vomiting, fever and chills, among other symptoms, according to a news release.

Last year, 41 cases of Vibrio vulnificus were reported statewide, including 11 deaths, but none from the county. There have been three deaths attributed to the infection so far this year across Florida.

Click here for a fact sheet about the bacterial infection.