Bacteria Lurking in the Baltic Sea: How to Protect Yourself
The warming climate is creating ideal conditions for the spread of dangerous bacteria along the Baltic Sea coast. One such bacterium is Vibrio. According to European monitoring data, the risk of infection in the Baltic region is high during the hot summer months when sea temperatures reach around 20°C. Experts from the National Public Health Centre (NPHC) are reminding holidaymakers about the risks of vibriosis and the preventive measures that can help protect against it.
How is Vibriosis Contracted?
Vibriosis is an infectious disease caused by Vibrio bacteria, with more than 20 species capable of infecting humans. The most common species responsible for human infection are Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus.
Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection is most often associated with eating raw or improperly cooked seafood, or any food that has been contaminated through improper handling of raw seafood. Symptoms typically develop within 24 hours of infection and last about three days. The disease manifests as gastroenteritis, with symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Some species, such as Vibrio vulnificus, can cause infections in wounds or soft tissues when an open wound is exposed to warm seawater. These skin infections usually begin between 12 and 72 hours after exposure. "Infection with Vibrio vulnificus through an open wound can result in a rash or skin redness, rapid swelling and pain, as well as the appearance of large, fluid-filled, sensitive, and discolored blisters," says Aušra Bartulienė, senior specialist of Communicable Disease Management Division at the NPHC.
Where Are the Bacteria Found?
Vibrio bacteria thrive in warm, low-salinity marine environments, coastal waters, and estuaries where fresh river water and salty seawater converge during the summer months. They are also found in enclosed bodies of water with moderate salinity.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has produced a map showing the risk of Vibrio infections in European coastal waters. The map is available at https://geoportal.ecdc.europa.eu/vibriomapviewer/
How to Protect Yourself
To reduce the risk of Vibrio infection:
- Avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood, and wear gloves when handling it.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with raw seafood.
- Prevent cross-contamination by keeping cooked seafood separate from raw shellfish and their juices.
"If you've recently had surgery, gotten a tattoo, piercings, or even minor cuts or scratches, avoid salt water or areas where rivers meet the sea. If you choose to swim in such water, cover any wounds with a waterproof dressing. Also, make sure to wash wounds and cuts thoroughly with soap and water after the contact with contaminated seawater or raw seafood," advises the NPHC representative.
Last updated: 09-08-2024
Related news:
NPHC Recommendations to Residents Regarding the Fire in Šilutė
Preliminary Overview of the 2025–2026 Influenza Season
Flu Season Is Ending: Incidence Rates Lower Than at the Same Time Last Year
Respiratory infection morbidity is decreasing
NPHC Provides Guidance on How toAct When Air Pollution Increases