Tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, Shell Key Preserve is one of Florida’s largest and most pristine barrier ...

Eight people have died in the U.S. this year in Florida and Louisiana from infections with Vibrio vulnificus, a "flesh-eating ...

The flesh-eating bacteria thrive in warm, brackish waters between May and October, making the Gulf Coast the perfect breeding ground.

Mexico Beach, Florida accumulated over 14 tons of seashells during a beach renourishment project. The city invited the public to collect the shells for free, with hundreds participating.

The bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, most often causes infection through open wounds and the consumption of undercooked or raw seafood.

There has been only one reported fatality in Mexico Beach from Hurricane Michael. The overall death toll from Michael's destructive march from Florida to Virginia stood at 17 on Sunday.