Deadly bacteria found in waters near luxury vacation destination ahead of summer

So-called flesh-eating bacteria have been detected in one of the most luxurious vacation spots in the United States — but experts say beachgoers should use caution and care rather than panic about it.

East Hampton and Sagaponac on the South Fork of Long Island are exclusive enclaves where wealthy executives, celebrities and old-money families retreat. Yet there's often an unwanted visitor.

The bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, occur naturally in coastal waters and are more common in warmer...