The Florida Health Department is urging people to avoid floodwaters to prevent exposure to Vibrio, a flesh-eating bacteria, in anticipation of flooding from Hurricane Milton.
Vibrio bacteria are commonly found in warm coastal waters and can cause illness when open wounds are exposed to contaminated water. After heavy rainfall and flooding, like that expected from Milton, the concentration of these bacteria may rise.
Watch NBC6 free wherever you are
WATCH HERE
Those who have compromised immune systems, liver disease or open wounds are at higher risk for Vibrio vulnificus, a life-threatening infection caused by Vibrio exposure.
Get local news you need to know to start your day with NBC 6's News Headlines newsletter.
SIGN UP
Copyright NBC News
