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Man dies from bacterial infection after eating bad oyster in Sarasota County

A Vibrio vulnificus bacterial infection has killed a man in Sarasota County.

A 71-year-old man has died after contracting a bacterial infection from a bad oyster he ate at a Sarasota-area restaurant last week, according to our news partners at WWSB.

State health officials tell 10News he ate the oyster on July 8 and was pronounced dead 48 hours later.

With summer here, protect yourself from bacteria in pools and hot tubs

Vibrio vulnificus, as the bacteria is technically known, occurs naturally in warm, salty or brackish water.

Infections are more likely between May and October when the water is warmer. But, such infections are still rare. In 2018, there have been less than five cases reported in Florida, 10Investigates found.

People with weakened immune systems or open wounds are at a greater risk for infection. Florida health officials say anyone with open wounds should keep them covered with clean, dry bandages when swimming. And, anyone eating shellfish should make sure their food is thoroughly cooked.

The restaurant where the oyster was served was not immediately identified.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story misidentified Vibrio vulnificus as Necrotizing fasciitis, which is a flesh-eating disease. The particular type of bacterial in question is not considered flesh-eating.

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