Safety in the Sea: Key Indicators Before a Dive

In the warmer months, many of us enjoy spending time by the water, whether it's a lake, river, or the sea. However, it's essential to be aware of potential health risks that can occur in these water bodies. Here's a guide to help you identify and avoid contamination by blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), Vibrio, and Cerariae, and take precautions against associated health risks.

### Blue-Green Algae (Cyanobacteria)

Blue-green algae, which can turn the water green or blue-green, are a common health hazard in lakes. They can form streaks or blankets on the water surface and create "clouds" in the water. Other signs include the presence of green, blue-green, brown, or even red slimy layers or mats on water surfaces, rocks, or plants. The water may have a musty or swampy odor, and water clarity is often reduced.

Exposure to blue-green algae can cause skin rashes, eye irritation, headaches, gastrointestinal distress, and in severe cases, neurological effects or liver damage. To avoid these risks, it's recommended to avoid direct contact with water that looks discolored or has visible scum, foam, or mats. If contact occurs, rinse immediately with clean water.

### Vibrio

Vibrio bacteria are typically found in coastal and estuarine waters, often proliferating in warm, brackish waters. While there are no visible signs in water, Vibrio infections can cause gastrointestinal illness, wound infections, and severe conditions like septicemia. To protect yourself, avoid contact between open wounds and warm coastal or brackish waters. It's also advisable to avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood, especially oysters.

### Cerariae (Likely "Cercariae")

Cercariae are larval forms of parasitic flatworms found in freshwater. They cause swimmer's itch—red, itchy, raised skin rashes appearing after swimming in infested waters. Unfortunately, there are no visible signs in water bodies for cercariae contamination. To minimize the risk, avoid swimming in waters known to have parasitic snail hosts, especially during warm months. Rinse and towel dry immediately after swimming, and use protective topical applications to reduce the risk of skin penetration.

By visually monitoring water bodies for blue-green algae and avoiding high-risk waters during peak seasons, maintaining good hygiene, and promptly managing exposures, one can reduce health risks associated with these contaminants effectively. For more information, consult local media, the websites of the German Federal Environmental Agency, the Federal Institute of Hydrology, and the European Environment Agency, or stay informed about the water quality in the Baltic Sea by reading local press, as advised by Sascha Maier.

[1] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cyanobacteria-and-health [2] https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/beaches/vibrio.html [3] https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/schistosomiasis/health-professionals/swimmers-itch.html [4] https://www.epa.gov/nutrient-policy-data/cyanobacteria-monitoring-and-assessment-program

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