Please note that this post contains affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward MageeNews.com a small commission – at no extra cost to you.
Health Precautions for Beach Water and Seafood
 Summer is a time to be especially aware of health risks from seawater and seafood from warm coastal waters.
Vibriosis Vibrio vulnificus bacteria thrive in warm waters, and can infect people when a cut or scrape on the skin is exposed to seawater, or when raw shellfish, especially oysters, are eaten. When Vibrio bacteria enter the bloodstream through an opening in the skin, vibriosis can result, causing fever and chills, blistering skin lesions, and possibly death. Reduce your risk of vibriosis by following these precautions:
More about Vibrio, risks, and precautions » At greater risk: You may be more likely to get an infection or severe complications if you have a chronic disease or receive immune-suppressing therapy for the treatment of disease.
Harmful Algae The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has issued water contact warnings for Mississippi beaches due to a blue-green Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) in coast waters. MDEQ advises people and pets to avoid contact with beach water, including swimming or wading, to prevent exposure to harmful blue-green algae. HAB can cause rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. MDEQ advises the public not to eat fish or any other seafood taken from affected areas, and for those exposed to HAB to wash with soap and water. The closures refer to water contact only and do not prohibit use of the sand portion of a beach. |
