Attention: Toxic blue-green algae in the Greifswalder Bodden - warning about swimming!

Attention: Toxic blue-green algae in the Greifswalder Bodden - warning about swimming!

An alarming sign for bathing enthusiasts and nature lovers: The health department of the Vorpommern-Greifswald district today issued a warning against swimming in the Greifswalder Bodden. The reason for this is blue-green algae that was discovered during a routine measurement yesterday, Tuesday, July 1st. The health risks posed by these cyanobacteria should not be underestimated, especially for sensitive groups of people such as small children, pregnant women and people with previous illnesses and immunocompromised people Ostsee-Zeitung reports.

Summer has us firmly in its grip and temperatures are rising to 34 degrees Celsius. This offers the blue-green algae ideal growth conditions. However, anyone planning to jump into the lagoon today should think again, because the water temperatures and prevailing weather conditions - lots of sun, little wind and little water movement - contribute to the reproduction. In addition, the easterly wind will push the algae towards the coast, meaning the situation is unlikely to improve quickly.

Health risks and symptoms

As for the dangers, some blue-green algae produce toxic substances. Contact with contaminated water can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. People who accidentally consume water that has been swallowed may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, as Nordkurier points out. In the worst case, damage to the liver and respiratory tract can occur.

The warning applies not only to people, but also to our four-legged friends: dogs are also at risk, and the health department advises increased attention. Anyone who sees striking signs such as a bluish-green cloudiness in the water or even carpets of algae should definitely keep their distance.

Alternatives to bathing

But there is a ray of hope: According to current control tests, the water in Eldena, Lubmin and Loissin shows no signs of blue-green algae. In Eldena in particular, the water is clear and safe, making it an attractive alternative for anyone looking to refresh themselves on hot days. Bathing water tests have been carried out regularly in 57 bathing areas in the region since May 5th to ensure water quality.

The dangerous algae bloom is a seasonal phenomenon that depends on the weather and can occur or change quickly, as the information from NDR makes clear. It is advisable to find out about the current water quality before going swimming and to prefer official bathing spots. Ultimately, everyone should remember: safety comes first, even when taking a refreshing dip into the cool water!