Flesh-eating bacteria: Expert tips for avoiding an infection this summer

In the wake of multiple cases of flesh-eating bacteria in Florida, some people may be wondering what they can do to protect themselves while on vacation or just enjoying a day at the local swimming hole this summer.

There have been 13 confirmed cases and four deaths from "vibrio vulnificus," commonly known as flesh-eating bacteria, in the Sunshine State this year, according to state health officials.

The bacteria isn't confined to Florida, however, and thrives in warm, brackish water along the U.S. coastlines," according to Lyssette Cardona, MD, infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic Florida. Infections can also happen when someone accidentally swallows contaminated water while swimming or from eating shellfish like oysters, clams and mussels.

"Infections with vibrio vulnificus bacteria are common during the months of May through October when the water is warmer," Cardona said in a news release. "The tend to thrive and multiply during that time, especially after hurricanes, or if there's been storms, or any type of flooding."

So what can people do to protect themselves?

Cardona suggests thoroughly cooking raw shellfish and avoiding swimming in potentially contaminated water, especially people with certain medical conditions.

"It is important that if you have any immunocompromising conditions, such as liver disorders, that you avoid contact with contaminated water, avoid swallowing any type of seawater, or brackish water, shower after swimming, and monitor for any alerts that the department of health may place in areas that may be more contaminated," Cardona advised.

People who have a cut or scrape should also be extra careful — a waterproof bandage over the wound can provide an added layer of protection.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms of a vibrio infection include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever and chills.

A vibrio bloodstream infection is often accompanied by fever, chills, dangerously low blood pressure and blistering skin lesions, while signs of a vibrio wound infection include fever, redness, pain, swelling, warmth, discoloration and discharge.

Anyone experiencing symptoms of bloodstream or wound infections should immediately see a doctor or go to the emergency room, the CDC advises.

There are an estimated 80,000 U.S. cases of vibriosis each year, with roughly one out of five patients dying.