Warm Waters Ahead: Staying Healthy on the Wicomico River and Its Tributaries

The Wicomico River and its tributaries provide wonderful opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, and enjoying the outdoors. While these waterways are an important community resource, warmer summer conditions can also create environments that support certain naturally occurring aquatic-borne pathogens, including bacteria in the Vibrio family. 

The good news is that there has not been a significant documented presence of harmful Vibrio bacteria in the Wicomico River system in recent years. However, scientists continue to monitor waterways including the Chesapeake Bay as climate change contributes to rising air and water temperatures. Warmer waters, particularly in brackish environments where freshwater and saltwater mix, can create more favorable conditions for Vibrio and other naturally occurring microorganisms.  

Although the risk remains low, community members should avoid entering the water with open cuts, scrapes or healing wounds. “If you do have a cut or a scrape, cover it with a waterproof bandage before entering the water,” advises Wicomico County Health Officer Matthew McConaughey. “And always wash off thoroughly with clean water.” Anyone who develops signs of infection such as redness, swelling, increasing pain, or a fever should seek medical attention.  

As environmental conditions continue to change, awareness and commonsense precautions remain the best tools for protecting public health. Residents can stay informed about topics like this by following the Wicomico Health Department on social media. Learn more about Vibrio specifically at Maryland Department of Health and Maryland Department of the Environment websites.