Flesh-rotting bacteria: What is Vibrio and should you be worried?

Summer heatwaves are driving European sea temperatures to record levels, and warmer coastal waters are favoring growth of Vibrio bacteria. Vibrio can cause infections through open wounds or contaminated seafood, though serious illness remains uncommon in temperate Europe. According to Euronews, the bacterium thrives in warm water, but swimmers and seafood lovers can minimize risk with simple steps: cover cuts before swimming and cook shellfish thoroughly. Elevated sea temperatures don't signal alarm—just prudent summer caution.

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