As one of the effects of climate change is warming waters, Vibrio populations and infections are expected to increase. The Baltic Sea and the North Sea are the fastest warming seas in Europe, and as the Baltic Sea is brackish, it is becoming increasingly suitable for Vibrio growth. The report notes that the number of days in a year that are suitable for Vibrio infections in the Baltic region has been growing since 1980.

In addition to Vibrio, the report highlights other waterborne and foodborne diseases that are likely to be affected by climate change, such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, Leptospira, Shigella, and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli. Higher temperatures, heavy precipitation, and flooding may all contribute to the growth or spread of such water- and foodborne pathogens. For example, flooding can contaminate agricultural water, soil, and goods by carrying animal waste and sewage.

Finally, the report notes that high air temperatures can adversely affect food quality during transport, storage and handling. The disruption of electrical, refrigeration, and cooking systems caused by adverse weather or excessive heat may also facilitate the transmission of foodborne illnesses.