Authorities in Montenegro have banned swimming at several beaches in Bar and Budva after tests indicated poor seawater quality and wastewater was seen flowing into the Adriatic Sea.
Red flags were raised at the Žukotrlica 02 and Žukotrlica 03 bathing areas in Šušanj, near Bar, as well as at Slovenska Plaža 01 and Pržno in Budva.
The restrictions will remain in effect until further testing confirms that the water is safe for swimmers.
The action followed reports of wastewater entering the sea near Šušanj beach, where visitors also noticed cloudy water and an unpleasant smell.
Media reports said sewage had been observed flowing into the sea at least two locations along the beach earlier this week.
Parents of children holidaying in Montenegro have also raised health concerns. Local clinics were reported to have treated children experiencing diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and general weakness.
Some paediatricians cited by regional media said bacteria in shallow coastal waters could be contributing to the illnesses, including contamination associated with sewage discharges.
Authorities have not released detailed figures on the number of patients or confirmed a direct link between the reported illnesses and water contamination.
Visitors have been advised to respect red flags and avoid entering the sea at affected locations until the swimming bans are lifted.