Politics & Government

Tips to Avoid Water-Related Illnesses

The Anne Arundel Department of Health offers information on disease-causing microorganisms associated with water.

Water is a big part of summer in Broadneck because it provides recreational opportunities as well as seafood—but it can also pose some risks.

The Anne Arundel County Department of Health recently released information about the risks associated with natural bodies of water and eating raw shellfish.

According to the press release, natural bodies of water can contain bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms that may result in water-related illnesses. Swimmer’s ear, an infection of the outer ear, is the most common problem.

Disease-causing microorganisms, such as various forms of vibrio, can enter the body through open cuts and sores. Eating raw shellfish can also cause vibrio-related illnesses, according to the Department of Health.

Find out what's happening in Broadneckwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As water use and temperatures rise each summer, cases of vibrio-related illnesses are reported in Anne Arundel County.

The health department advises that people with liver disease or weakened immune systems are at the highest risk of serious infection from vibrio bacteria. This group should avoid contact with raw shellfish whether in the water or on the plate. Although rare, vibrio can also cause serious infections in healthy people.

The Department of Health offers the following recommendations:

  • Cook shellfish (such as oysters, clams and mussels) completely.
  • Do not swim in natural bodies of water if you have an ear infection, perforated eardrum, open cut, skin lesion or immunity problem.
  • Wash well with soap and warm water after coming in contact with natural bodies of water.
  • Thoroughly clean any cuts or wounds you sustain during water activities.
  • Boaters may want to carry hand sanitizers and first-aid supplies in case of cuts and scrapes, especially those related to handling seafood.
  • If an infection develops in a wound, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Answers to commonly asked questions about natural water bodies, health risks and water-related illnesses, including vibrio and mycobacterium marinum are on the website for the Department of Health. Go to “Topics A-Z” and select “Water Quality, Health Risks, and Swimming or Fishing in Anne Arundel County Rivers and Creeks.”

Find out what's happening in Broadneckwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Broadneck