— At least 5 people from Louisiana have died this year after being infected by the flesh-eating bacterium known as Vibrio vulnificus, according to a recent announcement from the Louisiana Health Department. CASE TRACKER: HERE IS WHERE FLESH-EATING BACTERIA CASES HAVE BEEN REPORTED IN THE USOver the last 10 years, Louisiana has averaged just one death from flesh-eating bacteria at this point in the year, according to the state health department. Health officials say that the bacteria can enter the body through an open wound when swimming in saltwater or brackish water. Louisiana officials said the bacteria are typically found in warmer coastal waters from May to October. One person died from a Vibrio infection in Palm Beach County, Florida, earlier this year.