A rare species of so-called “flesh-eating” bacteria found in raw shellfish or seawater has been linked to five deaths in Florida this year, state health officials said.
Vibrio vulnificus, a dangerous strain of the vibrio bacteria that can lead to infections that can cause skin breakdown and ulcers, was confirmed in five deaths in the Tampa area, the Florida Department of Health said.
Two deaths were reported in Hillsborough County, with one each in Pasco, Polk and Sarasota.
A total of 26 cases of the bacteria have been confirmed statewide this year, including one in Broward. No cases have been reported this year in Miami-Dade.
R&I-Rawr
Crazycat