Beaches can hold sand More than just shells and fun. The World Health Organization (WHO) says multiple studies have shown the presence of microorganisms in sand that can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and other health problems.
Although most of these Microorganisms are harmlessDuring the holidays, be sure to take precautions to avoid unnecessary risks.
What bacteria and microorganisms are found in beach sand?
The presence Bacteria and parasites in the sand This is largely due to human behavior. Leaving trash on the beach or not picking up dog waste encourages the growth of these microorganisms, especially in areas close to waves.
Some of the most common bacteria and parasites found in sand are Escherichia coli, enterococci, salmonella and campylobacter,lThis can lead to gastroenteritis, or stomach problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Another microorganism of concern is the Toxocara parasite.This parasite usually lives in The intestines of cats, dogs and other animals, It can infect humans through skin-to-skin contact, such as walking or lying on sand contaminated by infected animal feces. However, this parasite usually disappears from the human body within a few days because it cannot find an optimal environment to reproduce.
What are the dangers of sand on beaches?
In addition to microorganisms, there are other dangers present in beach sand.For example, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria, can Causes skin infections and is resistant to some antibiotics.
You can also find fungi such as Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton rubrum, which can cause skin diseases like athlete’s foot or ringworm.
The World Health Organization has even found the worm that causes toxocariasis on some beaches, such as Marseille. These worms can cause illnesses such as fever, muscle aches and coughing. in more severe casesIf the eye is infected, it can damage the retina.
Despite the risk of contracting infection through The beach sand is very similar to For people coming from other environments, it is important to follow some advice to ensure a peaceful holiday and avoid health problems.
Some tips include using towels or mats to avoid direct contact with sand, preventing children from sitting naked on the sand, Avoid beaches where dogs or seagulls are seen, Avoid digging with your nails to prevent sand from collecting on them, and bathe before and after going to the beach to eliminate microorganisms from your skin.
While it’s great to enjoy a beach vacation, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that may be hiding in the sand.Taking precautions and following recommendations can Help prevent panic from ruining your long-awaited vacation.