Rising Flesh-Eating Bacteria Risks in Gulf Coast Waters

Flesh-eating Vibrio vulnificus bacteria have caused several deaths in Florida and Louisiana this summer. The bacteria thrive in warm coastal waters and can infect through open wounds or by eating contaminated raw shellfish. To reduce risk, avoid raw shellfish, cover wounds, and steer clear of warm coastal waters if you have open cuts or underlying health conditions. Prompt medical attention is crucial if infection signs appear.