Algal bloom leads to closure of lakes in Lower Saxony - Lakes for swimming in Lower Saxony shut down because of blue whale presence
In the summer months, bodies of water across Lower Saxony, Germany, are experiencing an increase in blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms. These blooms, which are more prevalent in standing bodies of water with high temperatures, pose health risks to both humans and dogs.
For humans, primary risks involve ingesting water containing blue-green algae toxins, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. Skin contact can cause irritation or rashes, while inhalation of water droplets or aerosols containing toxins may result in respiratory irritation or exacerbate existing respiratory conditions. Severe toxicity can affect the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, especially in children due to their smaller body weight.
For dogs, the risk is often greater and more acute. They may ingest algae by drinking water, licking algae off their fur, or eating dried scum washed ashore. Symptoms in dogs include vomiting, drooling, weakness, staggering, convulsions, and can lead to death within hours. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if exposure symptoms appear.
In the context of closed summer lakes in Lower Saxony, which are prone to warm, stagnant water conditions favorable to blue-green algal blooms, similar risks apply. Warm weather intensifies blooms and increases toxin concentrations.
Prevention measures include avoiding swimming, wading, or letting pets enter water with known or visible blue-green algae blooms, especially when water appears murky, discolored (green, blue-green, pea soup-like), or has surface scum or foam. Pets should also be prevented from drinking from or licking algae-affected water or shorelines. If exposure is suspected, skin or pet fur should be washed thoroughly with clean water immediately. Showering after contact with any surface water is also recommended to reduce infection risks.
In addition, people with respiratory issues should avoid inhaling water spray near blooms, including from activities like boating. Never treat water blooms with herbicides or algaecides, as dying algae release more toxins.
Currently, swimming bans are in effect for several bodies of water in Lower Saxony, including the beach at Gartower See in the district of Lüchow-Dannenberg, the Großer Ricklinger Teich (Ricklinger Bath) in Hannover, and the Juessee in the city of Herzberg am Harz. More than a dozen other bodies of water in the region are warned about blue-green algae blooms. Employees of the health department regularly check the water quality of bathing spots in Hannover until mid-September.
It is essential to exercise particular caution, especially by children, in affected areas. The bathing water atlas indicates blue-green algae blooms in more than a dozen bodies of water in Lower Saxony. A bluish-green discoloration of the water and the formation of streaks can indicate the presence of blue-green algae.
In summary, avoidance of contact and ingestion with affected waters is the most effective prevention in areas like Lower Saxony during summer months when blue-green algae blooms are prevalent. Prompt action and veterinary consultation are vital if pets show symptoms following exposure.
- To minimize the risks associated with blue-green algae blooms in the summer, it's crucial to abide by community policy recommendations that advise against swimming, wading, or letting pets enter water areas with visible blooms.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, taking a particular interest in nutrition and maintaining a healthy diet during summer months can help strengthen immune systems, potentially reducing sensitivity to potential blue-green algae toxins.
- Given the increase in blue-green algae blooms across Lower Saxony, local environmental-science initiatives should focus on monitoring and regulating water bodies to maintain safe drinking water, promoting a healthier and safer community environment for both humans and animals.
