Blue-green algae alarm in Brandenburg: These lakes are now taboo!

Blue-green algae alarm in Brandenburg: These lakes are now taboo!

The summer temperatures invite many people from Brandenburg and Cologne to enjoy the water and refresh themselves. However, in some bodies of water, such as Lake Hohenjesar in Alt Zeschdorf, swimming becomes a risk due to the high occurrence of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). According to a report by maz-online.de There have been complaints about water quality and repeated problems with these microscopic organisms since May.

Mike Bartsch, director of Lebus, emphasizes that the cause of the high blue-green algae infestation remains unclear. The promotion of algae growth can be promoted by various factors such as nutrient inputs, high temperatures and low water levels. Therefore, an increased occurrence of blue-green algae in the Havel waters is predicted in the region, especially in the Groß Glienicker See.

Health risks

Blue-green algae should not be confused with ordinary algae; Rather, they are gram-negative bacteria and are among the oldest life forms on earth. These bacteria are capable of producing harmful toxins, especially under optimal growth conditions such as high heat and nutrient-rich water. The pharmacies look around warns that symptoms such as skin irritation, nausea and respiratory problems may occur, especially in young children, pregnant women and immunocompromised people. If the water appears cloudy, you should definitely avoid swimming.

The situation is particularly dangerous for dogs. There was even a case of a dog dying from blue-green algae toxins in Lake Tegel in Berlin-Reinickendorf. Therefore, dog owners are advised to keep their animals on a leash and avoid contact with contaminated water. The Bavarian State Office of Health points out that toxin levels can be dangerous for dogs even if they are below the limits for humans.

Water quality and precautions

The current bathing water quality in Brandenburg is satisfactory overall, even if the visibility depth is limited in some lakes, such as Beetzsee and Rangsdorfer See. The greatest visibility depth was found at Lake Gollin at five meters. Health authorities regularly monitor bathing waters to detect any cyanobacteria blooms. If a bloom is suspected, water samples are taken and analyzed so that appropriate warnings and bans can be issued.

• Aktuell empfohlene Vorsichtsmaßnahmen für Badende:
• Bei trübem Wasser das Baden vermeiden.
• Nach Kontakt mit potenziell kontaminiertem Wasser gründlich abduschen.
• Bei Symptomen wie Übelkeit oder Hautreizungen sofort einen Arzt aufsuchen.
• Hunde stets im Auge behalten und bei Kontakt mit Blaualgen sofort einen Tierarzt aufsuchen.

The nutrients phosphorus and nitrogen, often caused by fertilizers, contribute to the spread of blue-green algae, which is further encouraged by climate change. As temperatures rise, waters warm up more quickly, increasing the frequency of algae blooms.

To ensure that the joy of swimming is not spoiled by health risks, it is important to follow local warnings and find out about water quality. Summertime can also be a valuable opportunity to take responsibility for your own health and that of your animal companions.