Prohibition of Swimming in Kelbra Reservoir Enforced - Forbidden to Submerge in Kelbra Reservoir
Residents and visitors of the Kelbra reservoir in Saxony-Anhalt have been advised to avoid swimming and bathing due to a blue-green algae bloom. This announcement was made by the health department of Mansfeld-Südharz district following concerns about the potential health risks associated with exposure to these microorganisms.
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can cause a range of symptoms affecting both humans and animals. Exposure can occur through swallowing contaminated water, direct contact with the skin or sensitive areas, or inhaling aerosols during activities like boating or water-skiing.
In humans, symptoms can include skin irritation, eye irritation, nose and throat irritation, respiratory difficulties, gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and neurological symptoms. In severe cases, exposure can lead to damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys, neurological effects, and in extreme cases, serious illness. Sensitive populations, including children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, are at higher risk even at low toxin levels.
Animals, such as cows, sheep, and dogs, can suffer severe illness or even death if they drink water with high concentrations of blue-green algae toxins.
Blue-green algae blooms are common in nutrient-enriched, warm, calm water bodies, conditions typical of summer and early fall. The Kelbra reservoir, located in Saxony-Anhalt, is not immune to these conditions and has experienced a bloom. The bloom can discolor the water green, blue-green, or brownish, sometimes producing a musty or rotten egg odor, and can form surface scums.
The good news is that the water slide and associated pool at the local beach are not affected by the ban.
The German Weather Service (DWD) has forecasted temperatures in Saxony-Anhalt on Monday at 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal day for enjoying the water slide and pool. However, it is essential to adhere to the bathing ban at the reservoir and avoid contact with any potentially contaminated water.
For more information, it is recommended to monitor the local news and health department updates for further details and guidance. If exposed, it is crucial to rinse immediately with clean fresh water and seek medical advice if symptoms occur.
[1] World Health Organization. (2017). Harmful algal blooms: Guidelines for recreational water quality. [2] United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2018). Harmful Algal Blooms. [3] European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2020). Harmful algal blooms. [4] Health Protection Scotland. (2021). Harmful Algal Blooms.
[1] In light of the current blue-green algae bloom at the Kelbra reservoir, community aid might be needed to spread awareness about the potential risks associated with exposure to these microorganisms, especially in areas like health-and-wellness and mental-health forums.
[2] While it's disappointing that swimming and bathing at the reservoir is not advised, this situation highlights the importance of proper vocational training for environmental-science professionals who can help monitor and mitigate such incidents in the future.
[3] Skin-care enthusiasts should be warned about possible skin irritation from contact with water contaminated by blue-green algae blooms. It's recommended to use clean fresh water for rinsing and seek medical advice if symptoms occur.
