DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — The warm ocean water is the perfect mix for a potentially deadly bacteria like vibrio vulnificus, which can become a flesh-eating bacteria. The bacteria is making its way across the states beaches.
Beachgoers said Friday was a hot and perfect day to hit the water.
“I come every day and during the summer it's beautiful,” said Francesca Dasalvio.
“This is a salt-loving bacteria,” said Terri Ellis.
Dr. Terris Ellis, a professor at the University of North Florida said you can get infected by the bacteria in two ways.
“One is from ingesting it and the other is from having an open cut or wound,” said Ellis.
Ellis said eating raw shellfish like oysters from warm water is also a way the disease could enter the body.
“During the summer I wouldn't recommend (eating) it,” said Ellis. She said to make sure you cook off the bacteria.
There have been more than 30 cases of flesh-eating bacteria in the past year in Florida.
Action News checked with the Duval County Health Department, which had one fatal case last year and one non-fatal case this year. St. Johns County said they didn't have any, and Clay County reports one back in 2011.
“It's not good to know that it exists, but we need to be more cautious and careful, but we can absolutely enjoy the beach," said Dasalvio.
But some beachgoers said right now they aren't taking any chances.
“I'm not getting in the water,” said Christy Csorna.
Health experts said some of the symptoms of the bacteria are swelling and pain. You should check with your doctor if you have these issues.