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Doctors warn swimmers about risk of flesh-eating bacteria in Houston-area beaches, lakes, and ponds
By Sofia Ojeda, Ninfa Saavedra at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC)
· July 1, 2026
· 3 min read
As Texans head to the beach and lakes this summer, health experts are urging swimmers to take extra precautions against a rare but potentially life-threatening infection caused by flesh-eating bacteria.Doctors say one of the most important ways to protect yourself is to avoid swimming if you have...
Key takeaway ”“It’s a very rapidly progressing infection, usually with fever and other systemic symptoms of infection,” said Dr.
Why this matters in The Pearland
For Pearland residents, the warning about flesh-eating bacteria in local waterways is particularly relevant given the city's proximity to numerous lakes, ponds, and the Gulf Coast. As the summer months bring more people to these areas for recreation, it's crucial that residents take the necessary precautions to protect themselves. The fact that bacteria capable of causing necrotizing fasciitis can be found in freshwater environments, not just saltwater, means that even those swimming in local lakes and ponds are at risk. Residents with compromised immune systems, such as those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy, should be especially vigilant. By taking simple steps like avoiding swimming with open wounds and washing thoroughly after swimming, Pearland residents can reduce their risk of contracting this devastating infection. It's a reminder to always prioritize water safety and be aware of the potential health risks associated with swimming in local waterways.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . The Pearland surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? As Texans head to the beach and lakes this summer, health experts are urging swimmers to take extra precautions against a rare but potentially life-threatening infection caused by flesh-eating bacteria.Doctors say one of the most important ways to protect yourself is to avoid swimming if you have...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for The Pearland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Sofia Ojeda, Ninfa Saavedra at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how The Pearland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Pearland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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