Two individuals succumb to vibrio illness while aboard a ship.
In the north of Germany, specifically Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, two individuals have unfortunately passed away due to vibriosis infections this year. The first case involved an 81-year-old tourist who contracted the infection while swimming in the Baltic Sea. He had several pre-existing illnesses and open wounds, which likely contributed to the severity of his condition.
The second case involved a 59-year-old local resident, whose body was found to have vibriosis in his bloodstream. His cause of death was identified as sepsis, although further details about this incident are not available.
According to local health authorities, these are the first vibriosis-related fatalities reported during the 2024 swimming season. So far this year, five cases of vibriosis have been reported.
People with certain risk factors, such as chronic illnesses, compromised immune systems, and the elderly, are particularly susceptible to vibriosis infections. The State Office for Health and Social Affairs (LAGUS) recommends that individuals in these risk groups with skin injuries should refrain from coming into contact with seawater or brackish water.
Higher water temperatures - more vibriosis
Vibriosis is a type of bacterial infection that thrives in saltwater at temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius. The bacteria can cause wound infections and, if left untreated, can lead to blood poisoning. Antibiotics and surgical procedures are typically used to treat vibriosis infections. The bacteria are a natural component of seawater and can multiply rapidly in warmer temperatures.
LAGUS is currently conducting regular testing on seven bathing waters every two weeks to monitor the levels of vibriosis and ensure the safety of swimmers.
The rise in vibriosis cases this year could be attributed to the higher water temperatures, as these conditions favor the growth and multiplication of the bacterial infection. Infectious diseases like vibriosis pose a significant threat to individuals with pre-existing illnesses, compromised immune systems, and the elderly.
