Poland closes seven beaches over bacterial contamination and toxic algae

Polish health authorities (Sanepid) have prohibited swimming at seven popular bathing sites after tests revealed dangerous levels of Escherichia coli and enterococci. The bans cover five beaches in Darłowo (including four in Darłowo Zachodni and one in Darłowo Wschodni) and two sites in Gdańsk Brzeźno. Inland waters are also affected: Stepnica on the Szczecin Lagoon and Lake Ostrzyckie were closed because of toxic cyanobacterial blooms, with a precautionary restriction also placed on Lake Junno where enterococci were found.

Officials warn that contact with contaminated water can cause skin and eye irritation as well as gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea, especially in the elderly and people with chronic illnesses. The issue extends beyond Poland; Germany’s Robert Koch Institute reported two recent deaths of elderly swimmers who contracted Vibrio infections in the Baltic Sea, underscoring a regional health risk as water temperatures rise above 20 °C.