BLERINA ÇULLAJ, KLEMENTINA PUTO
Abstract
The quality of surface waters is closely connected to the risk of various diseases that affect public health. Products from lakes and the sea—such as mussels, fish, and other aquatic organisms—can cause illness and foodborne poisoning if contaminated. Although efforts have been made to improve surface water quality in Albania, several areas still face problematic conditions, making these waters unsuitable for human use. This study is based on responses from the survey ‘Assessment of the cleanliness of Ionian Sea water in Saranda and Butrint Lake (microbial quality of mussels) and its impact on public health,’ interpreted through personal experiences and observations. Conducted from July 24 to September 24, 2025, it summarizes information from individuals regarding swimming in these waters, visits to the areas, consumption of lake and marine products (mussels, fish), and any subsequent illness symptoms. Among 100 respondents in Saranda, 22 locals and 56 tourists reported swimming in these waters, while 22 did not. Of those who swam, 20 reported illness and 17 experienced discomfort after consuming mussels. Although no definitive causal link is established, previous monitoring showed that microbial levels at some sites exceeded acceptable limits, and the summer rise in infectious diseases is suspected to be related to water exposure. These findings suggest a connection between swimming in surface waters—both in Butrint Lake and along the Saranda coast (Ionian Sea)—and health- related symptoms, highlighting the need for further research to provide more precise assessments.
Key words: Disease, mussels, public health, survey, surface waters.