Be aware of toxic algae in waterways
NHSalertinwarmermonths
A healthcare expert has urged outdoor enthusiasts to be wary of the potential risks associated with blooms of hazardous blue-green algae in the region’s waterways as the warmer months approach.
The tiny organisms develop naturally in lochs, ponds, reservoirs, rivers and in the sea iteslf.
They are a common seasonal occurrence and water which has been affected by agricultural, domestic or industrial discharges is most at risk of developing the algae.
It can multiply during the summer months and discolour the water, which then appears green, blue-green or a greenish brown as a result.
Occasionally, the algae clumps together to form a scum on the surface of the water.
And, at the shoreline, algal crusts may even appear anywhere from brown to almost black in colour.
Both people and animals can be affected as a result of direct contact with water affected by blue-green algae and NHS Tayside is advising the public – especially people undertaking water sports – anglers and dog owners to be alert to the blooms as temperatures rise.
Dr Emily Stevenson is a consultant in public health medicine for the regional health board.
She explained: “We routinely monitor levels of blue-green algae over the warmer months because of the potential health risk to people and to animals.
“Canoeists, wind surfers and swimmers who come into contact with the algal scum – or who accidentally swallow affected water – can suffer from complaints such as skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, or pains in muscles and joints.
“These symptoms are usually mild but, in some cases, can be severe.”
Dr Stevenson continued: “The risk to small animals like dogs is significant over the summer months as they tend to drink more water in the heat and may eat shoreline algal crusts.
“Dog owners should keep an eye on their pets, especially if they come into contact with water which could be affected.”
The healthcare consultant went on to add: “The public should be reassured that public drinking water supplies are always treated to prevent any harmful effects to health due to blue-green algae.”
Where monitoring reveals higher than acceptable levels of algal bloom, warning notices will be posted at the affected waterways.
This was the case in August last year across the region as a whole, as well as in July, 2022, in the Loch Earn area.
The latter occasion saw Perth and Kinross Council put up warning signs on parts of the shore at the picturesque landmark on the outskirts of Crieff.
PKC has encouraged residents to use the Bloomin’ Algae App to find and report toxic algal blooms.
A spokesperson for the local authority said: “Please be aware of the health risks to yourself and your pets that these algal blooms present and avoid swimming in, or drinking ,water affected in this way.”
For more information, see the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology website by searching for www.ceh.ac.uk.