Timely alert over potentially dangerous algal blooms

Health chiefs have issued an early summer reminder over potentially hazardous bluegreen algae in Angus waters.

The organisms develop naturally in lochs, ponds, reservoirs, rivers and the sea, and are a common seasonal occurrence with waters affected by agricultural, domestic or industrial discharges most at risk of developing the algae.

The algae can multiply during the summer months and discolour the water which then appears green, blue-green or greenish brown, and occasionally form a scum on the surface.

At the shoreline, algal crusts may appear brown to almost black in colour.

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 to be alert to the blooms as temperatures rise.

“We routinely monitor levels of blue-green algae over the warmer months because of the potential health risk to people and to animals,” said Dr Jackie Hyland, consultant in public health medicine for NHS Tayside.

“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.

“The risk to small animals like dogs is significant over the summer months as they tend to drink more water and may eat shoreline algal crusts.”

Lintrathen, Monikie, Glenogil and Den of Ogil reservoirs as well as Forfar Loch and Loch Lee are regularly monitored.