Lithuanian health experts warn of under‑estimated summer water risks

Family doctor Renata Aleknienė, a health‑loss specialist for Compensa Life Vienna Insurance Group SE in Lithuania, cautions that small stagnant water bodies—ponds, small lakes and similar sites—pose a high risk of bacterial, protozoan and viral infections, especially for children who are more likely to ingest water or ignore hygiene rules.

She also highlights that beach sand can contain parasites such as toxoplasma, which is dangerous for pregnant women, and that insect stings and rare snake bites require prompt first‑aid measures. The doctor stresses that seniors and people with chronic illnesses are more vulnerable to complications.

Advice for safe swimming includes using official beaches with lifeguards, avoiding unverified swimming spots, not swallowing water, refraining from diving in unknown areas, supervising children at all times, abstaining from alcohol, wearing life‑vests on watercraft, and being ready to call emergency services (112) and perform CPR or basic first aid if an accident occurs.