Researchers have discovered the presence of flesh-eating bacteria in the St. John’s River. But though it was responsible for 11 deaths last year, it is not a serious danger to the public, the Florida Times-Union reports.
Jacksonville University researchers say the bacteria known as Vibriovulnificus, along with its less dangerous counterpart Vibrioparahaemolyticus, probably has resided in the St. John’s for years. According to the Times-Union, the researchers urge Duval residents to stay calm and protect themselves by eating only shellfish that has been thoroughly cooked, and avoid going into the river with open sores.