New Delhi, Aug. 8 -- Louisiana health officials have urged residents to take precautions after the state recorded an increase in severe infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus, a potentially deadly bacteria sometimes described as a "flesh-eating" bacterium.

Louisiana has reported nine cases so far this year, including five deaths, according to the Louisiana Department of Health. In previous years, the state averaged about seven cases and one death over the same period.

The Louisiana Department of Health said all nine patients infected this year had wounds exposed to seawater. Officials also said every patient had an underlying health condition.

Vibrio bacteria occur naturally in warm coastal waters and tend to be present in higher conce...