The Florida county that was devastated by Hurricane Ian last month has seen a surge in cases of flesh-eating bacteria illnesses and deaths.
Officials say Lee County, where the category four storm made landfall on 28 September, has recorded 29 illnesses and four deaths owing to the bacteria.
All but two cases were diagnosed after the hurricane.
Vibrio vulnificus infections can be caused after bacteria enters the body through open cuts.
The bacteria lives in warm brackish water, like standing floodwaters.
“The Florida Department of Health in Lee County is observing an abnormal increase in cases of Vibrio vulnificus infections as a result of exposure to the floodwaters and standing waters following Hurricane Ian,” a spokesperson at the county health department said on Monday.
The statement called on residents to “always be aware of the potential risks associated when exposing open wounds, cuts, or scratches on the skin to warm, brackish, or salt water”.
“Sewage spills, like those caused from Hurricane Ian, may increase bacteria levels,” the statement continued. “As the post-storm situation evolves, individuals should take precautions against infection and illness caused by Vibrio vulnificus.”
Collier County, just south of Lee County, has also recorded three confirmed cases that officials say are storm-related.
