AI-assisted summary Vibrio vulnificus bacteria, found in warm coastal waters and raw seafood, has caused four deaths in Florida this year.

Infection can occur through consuming raw shellfish or exposure of open wounds to contaminated water.

Planning to take a family vacation to Florida before the start of school in the fall? You should be aware of a rare “flesh-eating” bacteria, Florida health officials say.

Vibrio vulnificus, a bacteria that lives in sea waters, brackish water and inside raw or uncooked seafood, led to four deaths in four counties across the state as of July 11, a report from Florida Health officials show.

Forty-six cases have been reported by Florida health officials in the last three years. Additionally, 11 people have died.

People with open wounds can be exposed to Vibrio and should take necessary precautions if immunocompromised.

Here’s what to know if you’re planning to visit a Gulf Coast state this summer:

How does a person get infected with Vibrio vulnificus?

Vibrio vulnificus occurs when individuals eat raw shellfish, particularly oysters that carry bacterium in warm coastal waters during the summer months.

Additionally, since shellfish are found in warm waters, people with open wounds can be exposed to Vibrio and should take necessary precautions if immunocompromised.

Where is Vibrio vulnificus located?

Vibrio are bacteria that naturally live in coastal waters year-round.

Is Vibrio vulnificus in Michigan lakes?

Unlikely. Michigan has freshwater lakes. Vibrio vulnificus is found in warm coastal saltwater and brackish water. Brackish water has higher salt content than freshwater, but lower than saltwater.

Why is it called a ‘flesh-eating bacteria’?

If the bacteria enters the body through a wound it can cause necrotizing fasciitis, killing the flesh around the infection site.

Infected wounds may require major surgery or limb amputations, according to the CDC.

How is Vibrio vulnificus infection treated?

If Vibrio vulnificus is suspected, patients are treated with antibiotics.

How common is Vibrio vulnificus?

Vibrio vulnificus is rare, but is often underreported, Florida health officials say.

Between 1988 and 2006, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received reports of more than 900 Vibrio vulnificus infections from the Gulf Coast states, where most cases occur.

How to avoid Vibrio vulnificus

Below are some tips to avoid Vibrio vulnificus, according to the Florida Department of Health and the CDC.

Stay out of saltwater and brackish water if you have an open wound or cut. If you get a cut while you are in the water, leave the water immediately.

If your open wounds and cuts could come in contact with salt water, brackish water or raw or undercooked seafood, cover them with a waterproof bandage.

Cook shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) thoroughly.

Avoid cross-contamination of cooked seafood and other foods with raw seafood and juices from raw seafood.

Always wash your hands with soap and water after handling raw shellfish.

Seek medical attention right away for infected wounds.

Distance from Michigan to Florida?

According to Google Maps, from Detroit to Miami, the shortest route is approximately 20 hours, a 1,350-mile drive.

USA Today contributed to this report.