Explained: Health officials urge caution for Gulf Coast beachgoers during surge of deadly bacterial infections

Louisiana has confirmed nine Vibrio vulnificus cases this year, all hospitalized and five fatal.

Vibrio vulnificus

A type of bacteria found in seawater and brackish water that can cause severe, sometimes fatal infections.

brackish water

A mix of fresh and saltwater found in estuaries and lagoons.

estuaries

Coastal areas where rivers meet the sea, mixing fresh and salt water.

flesh-eating bacteria

A colloquial term for bacteria like Vibrio vulnificus that can destroy skin and soft tissue.