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Eichbaumsee closed until further notice: danger from blue-green algae!
Bergedorf closes Eichbaumsee due to the risk of blue-green algae. Health risks known, dog owners should be careful.
Eichbaumsee closed until further notice: danger from blue-green algae!
In the beautiful Bergedorf, the current situation at Eichbaumsee is causing worried faces. The reason for this is the abundance of blue-green algae, or more precisely, the cyanobacteria. These sticky creatures not only cause an unsightly greenish cloudiness in the water, but also pose health risks. Like that Hamburg.de reported, the Eichbaumsee will be closed until further notice in order to protect the population from possible dangers.
The temporary closure was decided due to a massive increase in these cyanobacteria. When developed in large numbers, these small, often invisible bacteria can produce toxic substances that are harmful to humans and animals. “Symptoms of poisoning can range from nausea and diarrhea to shortness of breath,” warns NDR. The district office has put up appropriate signage to inform visitors of the danger and urges them not to let dogs into the water or let them drink from it. A clear message: safety comes first!
Blue-green algae: An underestimated danger
Blue-green algae develop rapidly in warm waters, especially in the summer months. According to that Federal Environment Agency In Germany there are mainly liver-toxic substances such as microcystins, which come from cyanobacteria. These toxic substances can be released through the water supply and during the treatment of drinking water. “The WHO specifies a provisional guide value of 1 µg/l for microcystin-LR, which is often exceeded,” says the current reports. The big danger is that pregnant women, small children and people with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of these bacteria.
In addition, it is often difficult to distinguish between harmless green algae and harmful blue-green algae. Visible signs such as dead fish on the surface of the water or a cloudy water surface are warning signs that should not be ignored. It is therefore recommended to find out about official bathing areas where the water quality is regularly checked.
What does this mean for the region?
The closure of Eichbaumsee is a clear signal that the authorities are taking the protection of the population seriously. It remains to be seen how long the popular resort will remain closed, especially since there is currently no information regarding the lifting of the closure. The enthusiasm for swimming and nature in the region remains unbroken, but safety is now an absolute priority. Further research into blue-green algae and its effects is essential. Ultimately: “The health of our citizens should always come first.”