According to Nabada: Health warning about gastrointestinal diseases in Ulm!

According to Nabada: Health warning about gastrointestinal diseases in Ulm!

An eerie echo of the popular Nabada 2024 in Ulm: After the wet and happy festivities on Creator Black Monday, numerous participants complained about severe gastrointestinal complaints. The bath in the Danube, as SWP reports, is to be enjoyed at your own risk. The health department has issued clear warnings that do not shy away from the possible risks posed by the Danube water.

Among those affected is 18-year-old Imke Anger, who, along with nine friends, complains of symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and fever. Many of the participants said on social networks that they accidentally swallowed Danube water, which may have triggered the symptoms. Experts from SWR suspect that the gastrointestinal diseases have a connection with the water quality of the Danube.

Fluctuating water quality

Another problem is that the water quality in the Danube is not checked regularly. Although the state water supply carries out daily checks on drinking water to ensure that E. coli bacteria are not present, the Danube itself is proving more difficult to monitor. Juliane Conte, spokeswoman for the state water supply, makes it clear that the Danube can carry pathogens in different concentrations, which can pose a health risk when swimming.

The health department emphasizes that particular caution is required, especially for small children, older people and people with weakened immune systems. It is advised not to swallow water and avoid open wounds while bathing. You should also shower thoroughly after swimming to free yourself from possible germs.

The location at a glance

• Magen-Darm-Erkrankungen nach Nabada 2024: mehrere Teilnehmer betroffen
• Gesundheitsamt gibt Warnungen heraus: Baden auf eigene Gefahr
• Kritische Wasserqualität der Donau, regelmäßige Kontrollen fehlen
• Besonders gefährdete Gruppen: Kleinkinder, ältere Personen, immunschwache Menschen
• Empfehlungen: Keine Wunden, nicht schlucken, gründlich duschen

Finally, it should be noted that the city of Ulm informs on its homepage that the water quality in running waters is not monitored and that participation in the Nabada is at your own risk. The 2025 bathing season will not bring any improvement to the situation because, according to the Federal Environment Agency, the quality standards vary constantly, significantly influenced by inflows and precipitation. Anyone who still wants to take the plunge should be aware of the potential risks and decide on their own responsibility.

Despite the health warnings, Imke Anger is optimistic and plans to take part in Nabada again next year. It will be interesting to see what stories the next festival will bring – perhaps with less stomachache and more glorious memories.