Coastlines to become increasingly infested with harmful bacteria

Warming waters and changing salinity mean coasts around Northern Europe and the US are becoming more conducive to bacteria that cause severe disease such as gastroenteritis, cholera, severe wound infections and sepsis. File photo: Denis Minihane

Coastlines across Europe look set to become increasingly infested with bacteria that cause gastroenteritis, cholera, severe wound infections and even sepsis.

The Lancet Countdown’s sixth annual report declares a “code red” for a healthy future, as it warns that unless urgent action is taken, climate change will continue to exacerbate health hazards such as food and water insecurity, heatwaves, and the spread of infectious diseases.