Forget sharks! Health officials in Florida are now warning beach goers that a rare form of deadly flesh-eating bacteria is also present in warmer waters.

The bacterial infection, which can cause gastroenteritis, sepsis and lead to amputations, has already infected at least 7 people and killed 2 this year. The state Health Department says there have been 32 cases in the past 12 months.

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Flesh-eating bacteria detected on the Florida coastOfficials say people can minimise their risk by avoiding swimming in the sea water and using extreme caution when consuming or handling raw shellfish.