The deaths were claimed to have happened in the counties of Bay, Broward, Hillsborough, and St. John, and health officials say the bacterium has been spreading throughout Florida (via CBS News).
Health officials warn of the potential risks of this bacteria in the summer, and in addition to the four persons who died, at least seven others have also become unwell.
Since 2016, there have been 448 cases in Florida linked to this bacteria, including 100 fatalities, according to CBS News. Other Florida counties, such as Santa Rosa and Manatee, have confirmed more cases.
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the bacteria can be exposed through tainted water and by eating raw or undercooked shellfish, which “concentrates” inside the animal.
