The Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW) is developing an innovative early warning system to better protect swimmers from dangerous vibrios in the Baltic Sea. Although infections with these bacteria are rare, they can be life-threatening, especially for older people with pre-existing medical conditions. Last year, two deaths were reported in connection with vibrio infections. The new system is designed to recognise elevated levels of bacteria at an early stage and thus contribute to the safety of bathers.
Drone technology and AI in use
According to a press release, microbiologist Matthias Labrenz and his team from the IOW regularly took and analysed water samples at 15 locations between Rostock and Heiligendamm for over a year. This extensive collection of data forms the basis for the early warning system. The results should help to better predict the occurrence of the dangerous bacteria and thus be able to issue warnings in good time.
From 2026, a drone equipped with a special camera is to be used to detect increased vibrio occurrences. "If it flies over a beach, it can measure the spectral colours and thus show whether there is an increase in blue-green algae," Labrenz explained to NDR. A short time later, more vibrio ions can be expected, as these feed on dying blue-green algae. The data collected by the drone will be sent to the IOW via a satellite and analysed there within a few minutes using artificial intelligence.
Vibrio ions in the Baltic Sea: a growing problem
Vibrio bacteria are increasingly multiplying in the Baltic Sea as water temperatures rise. In recent years, more of these bacteria have been detected, which is linked to the continuous warming of the water. Vibrio bacteria thrive particularly well in water temperatures above 20 degrees and in waters with a medium salt content - conditions that are becoming increasingly common in the Baltic Sea.
For healthy people with an intact immune system, there is generally no need to worry when swimming or doing water sports. However, vibrios can enter the body via open wounds such as cuts, scratches or abrasions. One noticeable symptom of an infection is unusually severe pain, even with minor injuries. In such cases, a doctor should be consulted immediately. If recognised early, a vibrio infection can usually be treated well with antibiotics.
Precautionary measures for water sports enthusiasts
It is important for water sports enthusiasts and swimmers to treat minor wounds carefully and keep an eye on them. Scratches, cuts or abrasions should be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and covered with a plaster. The injured area should then be checked regularly. If the wound is healing normally, the pain, redness and swelling should subside. The wound should be dry after a few days at the latest. If this is not the case or if there is unusually severe pain, a visit to the doctor is recommended to avoid complications.
