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Florida health officials have said at least seven people have died in Florida after being infected by a "rare" and potentially deadly bacteria that is turning up now that the weather is warmer.
Vibrio vulnificus bacterium is spiking along the coastal areas of the state, and at least 32 people have been infected in the past 12 months.
Those same health officials have issued another statement encouraging Floridians and tourists to continue enjoying Florida's white sandy beaches just as they did before.
From the news release: "Florida's beaches and water are safe to enjoy responsibly—risk of infection is minimal if you take proper precautions."
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following precautions to avoid Vibrio vulnificus infections:
- Avoid exposing open wounds to warm saltwater, brackish water or to raw shellfish
- Wear protective clothing when handling raw shellfish
- Cook shellfish thoroughly and avoid food contamination with juices from raw seafood
- Eat shellfish promptly after cooking and refrigerate leftovers
Last week, Florida Health Department spokeswoman Mara Burger said there are several ways a person can be exposed to Vibrio, including eating raw or under-cooked shellfish or seafood, and swimming in salt water.
"People with open wounds can be exposed to Vibrio vulnificus through direct contact with seawater," she said.
The following Florida counties have registered cases where at least one person has been infected by the bacteria:
- Brevard (1 death)
- Broward
- Duval
- Marion (1 death)
- Pasco
- Santa Rosa
- St.Lucie
The bacterial infection can cause gastroenteritis, sepsis and can lead to amputations.
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