NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — A new report says a rare bacteria, known as flesh-eating bacteria, is on the rise in New Jersey.
There was only one reported case in eight years in the Garden State but now doctors have treated five patients with the infection over the past two years.
The bacteria is called vibrio vulnificus.
One New Jersey man lost all four limbs to it.
Doctors at Cooper University Hospital say the five cases all stemmed from the Delaware Bay.
Researches point to rising water temperatures for the increase infections outside of traditional areas, such as coastal waters down south.
The bacteria can cause infection through a cut in the skin or through consumption of eating raw shellfish.
People with chronic medical problems, especially liver disease, cancer or HIV are at greater risk for complications and need to take extra precautions.
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