Deadly 'flesh-eating bacteria' can thrive at the beach. How to stay safe. The bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, most often causes infection through open wounds and the consumption of undercooked or raw ...

Health officials say watch out for this 'flesh-eating' bacteria From left, Francesca Spagnolo, 7, and Alisha Bernecker, 8, splash around in the water at Belle Isle beach on June 12, 1996.

A rare "flesh-eating bacteria" that lives in warm saltwater has led to at least four deaths this year, but some simple safety precautions can keep you safe while on vacation.