The Vibrio bacteria occurs naturally in coastal waters, and is found more frequently between May and October, when waters are warmer, experts said.
The infections are commonly associated with eating raw or undercooked oysters and other seafood, but also occur when people with open wounds or cuts come in contact with seawater or brackish water where the bacteria are present, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Some Vibrio infections lead to necrotizing fasciitis, a severe infection in which the flesh around an open wound dies, inspiring the “flesh-eating bacteria” moniker, the CDC said.
The bacteria is also known for causing a human illness called vibriosis. People at greatest risk for illness from the infection are the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, particularly those with chronic liver disease, Florida health officials said.
About one in five people with the infection die, the CDC said.