A deadly infection has begun spreading across Europe

European residents have been warned about the spread of a dangerous bacterium capable of causing severe infections.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to Metro, specialists have warned about an increased risk of the spread of the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus in Europe, which in severe cases can cause life-threatening diseases.

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, this microorganism is capable of causing necrotizing fasciitis — a severe infection in which rapid destruction of soft tissues occurs. In the most serious cases, doctors are forced to resort to amputation of the affected limb to save the patient's life. If the bacterium enters the bloodstream, it can trigger the development of sepsis, which poses a serious threat to life.

According to foreign specialists, the most favorable environment for Vibrio vulnificus includes river estuaries, lagoons, and other areas where warm water is combined with low salinity. It is precisely these conditions that promote the active reproduction of the dangerous microorganism.

Previously, the high salinity of the Mediterranean Sea waters significantly limited the spread of this bacterium. However, as experts note, changing climatic conditions are leading to rising water temperatures and a gradual decrease in salinity levels, which may create more favorable conditions for the spread of Vibrio vulnificus in European coastal areas.