Bathing in the Gödnitzer See dangerous! Health office warns of blue algae!

Bathing in the Gödnitzer See dangerous! Health office warns of blue algae!

Zerbst, Deutschland - Yesterday the Anhalt-Bitterfeld health department pronounced a noticeable warning: Baden in the Gödnitzer See near Zerbst is prohibited until at least August. The reason for the blocking is the blue -green algae identified, which occur massively, especially in the warm summer months of surface waters such as this. The effects on health should not be underestimated and range from skin irritation to serious gastrointestinal complaints. The water also carries risks for animals.

Blue algae, although they are often referred to as algae, are actually cyanobacteria. These have the ability to multiply massively with persistent warmth and little wind, especially in flat lakes. Visible signs of such a flower are greenish or blue-green cloudings in the water, streaks on the surface or even algae carpets. If you no longer see your feet in knee -high water or see the dead fish on the surface, you should keep your distance as soon as possible. The danger affects not only people, but also pets that can come into contact with these bacteria, which can lead to serious poisoning, especially for dogs.

health risks through blue algae

The toxins produced by some blue -green algae cause a variety of symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, earache and in severe cases even breathing difficulties. People with a weakened immune system, toddlers and pregnant women are particularly susceptible to the health risks of these microbes. The distinction between harmless green algae and harmful blue algae can only be made in the laboratory, which also complicates the situation.

If you are planning a bath in the lake, it is advisable to find out about the water quality at official bathing spots in advance, where regular controls take place. Especially in times of longer dry periods, as we have had to experience in the past few months, health authorities are particularly vigilant to pronounce bathing bans when the load increases. Also remember: If you notice skin irritation or other symptoms after swimming, please see a doctor immediately.

The Deetzer Teich, which is currently algae -free and thus offers a safe alternative for swimmers, is a good sign in the region. But even here there is a certain caution, because the nutrients made of fertilizers, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, sustainably promote the growth of cyanobacteria.

The problem of the blue -green algae flowers is tightened not only by local weather conditions, but also by climate change. With increasing temperatures, such poison blossoms occur earlier in many waters and occur more frequently. This development not only affects bathing fun, but also brings serious health risks. It is therefore extremely important to keep your eyes open and take appropriate precautionary measures.

In order to prevent a hazard, dog owners should also make sure that their animals do not come into contact with contaminated water, since there are also large health risks for them. As is well known, provision is better than aftercare - so stay safe and informed!*

More details on the risks of blue algae can be found at Radio saw , ndr and pharmacies Umschau .