‘Seal finger’ warning over infection if bitten by sea mammal

Swimmers have been warned to keep their distance from seals in the UK due to the risk of contracting a severe infection known as “seal finger” caused by necrotic bacteria on the animals’ teeth. The British Divers Marine Life Rescue charity issued the warning as hundreds of seals gather off the coast of Cornwall during pupping season, where around 120,000 grey seals reside, representing 40% of the world’s population and the majority of Europe’s. Marine animal medic Louise Round emphasized the importance of respecting seals as wild animals and avoiding close contact to prevent potential bites and the serious consequences of “seal finger.”

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