A blueprint for Vibrio surveillance and risk reduction in Europe

Vibrio bacteria, long regarded as pathogens of tropical waters, are now emerging across numerous European coastlines as rising sea surface temperatures and extreme weather reshape microbial ecologies. Wound and foodborne infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and other non-cholera species are increasing in frequency and latitude. Recent heat-related outbreaks in the Baltic and North Seas demonstrate that climate change is already expanding the suitable habitat for these bacteria. Yet across Europe surveillance remains patchy, diagnostics inconsistent, and risk communication limited. Europe requires an integrated approach to Vibrio preparedness, uniting environmental monitoring, genomic epidemiology surveillance, and public health awareness. Recognising Vibrio spp. as a sentinel of climate-linked infectious disease will be necessary for protecting coastal communities, seafood safety, and health systems in a warming world.