Ester Oscarson Lönngren, 10, injured herself on a sharp oyster during a swim at Stråvalla strand outside Varberg. She needed seven stitches after the Tuesday accident.
The sun was shining when Ester took a swim and tried to climb onto a floating dock. She felt a sting in her leg and the wound proved deep. Her older brother helped her ashore and she was driven to the emergency room.
Her mother's email to the municipality led to information about several similar incidents. It is likely the invasive Japanese giant oyster species first seen on the west coast in 2007.
Professor Mats Lindegart at the University of Gothenburg states that the species has increased sharply and is here to stay. Åsa Strand at the County Administrative Board advises swimmers to use swim shoes and watch out for the oysters.