Rare seawater 'flesh-eating' bacteria kills 35 a year

Story HighlightsFlorida man's death tied to rare 'flesh-eating' diseaseBacteria can enter body through cut or scrape on a swimmer or fishermanNationwide, about 35 people a year die from infection by the bacteria. A: The bacteria thrive in warm salty water around the Gulf Coast, often in shallow water where people fish and play. If people have scratches or cuts on their skin, usually the legs, the bacteria can find their way in and cause aggressive infections. Oysters filter huge amounts of water, so if the bacteria are in the water, the oyster can ingest them.

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