Blue-green algae warning! Swimming in Saxony is now dangerous for everyone!

Blue-green algae warning! Swimming in Saxony is now dangerous for everyone!

High temperatures are causing mixed feelings this year because they not only bring a summery atmosphere, but also have their downsides, especially for those who love swimming. In Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia, numerous bodies of water have been affected in recent days by a high concentration of blue-green algae, which is significantly affecting the quality of bathing water. The situation has led to warnings from various health authorities and district offices advising against swimming in affected waters. For example, the Deetzer Teich and the Muldestausee in the Anhalt-Bitterfeld district are affected; Here the authorities strongly advise against swimming, while you should also be careful in the Bleiloch reservoir near Schleiz, as a possible blue-green algae infestation is suspected, as is the case Borken newspaper reported.

A look at the Bautzen dam shows that it has been struggling with this problem since the beginning of July. Blue and green algae have also settled in the Koberbach dam in the Zwickau district, which has led the responsible health authorities to advise against swimming. There are reasons for this, as contact with blue-green algae can cause nausea, diarrhea and even vomiting. There are also warnings for animals that are at serious risk when bathing or drinking from contaminated waters - this risk not only affects dogs, but also other animals such as cattle and pigs MDR shows.

Particularly worrying for children and the elderly

The health risks are particularly high for children, older people and people with weakened immune systems who can suffer from the negative effects of blue-green algae. Skin, mucous membrane and eye irritations are just some of the unpleasant side effects that can occur. Even those who just want to enjoy the swimming lakes should exercise caution and take possible symptoms such as nausea, skin irritation or respiratory problems seriously. In this context, the recommends Pharmacy look around, to shower thoroughly after bathing in potentially affected water.

With a bit of luck, moderate temperatures could curb the blue-green algae bloom. The German Weather Service is predicting high temperatures of over 30 degrees for the coming days. In this situation, however, people remain on guard in the Mockritz natural pool in Dresden: There are increasing numbers of cercariae there, which can also pose health risks. These small larvae, which primarily affect waterfowl, can cause “bathing dermatitis,” which for many bathers is associated with itchy, red welts. For this reason, the natural pool will remain closed on Thursday and Friday while the operators plan measures to combat these worms.

So the people of Cologne, as well as the others affected, have no choice but to wait and inform themselves accordingly in order to be able to enjoy an untroubled summer - because the blue-green algae often disappear again as soon as cooler temperatures or rain enter the scene. Until then, however, it is important to be careful and mindful when bathing so that the fun of bathing does not become a health risk.