Blue Green Algae Health Risk Uk

Cyanobacteria or blue green algae a type of blooming algae can produce toxins.

Blue green algae health risk uk.

Don t drink from or enter this water. Some species of blue green algae produce harmful toxins which take effect when eaten inhaled or skin contact is made. People may be exposed to cyanobacterial toxins by drinking or bathing in contaminated water. If you spend time near water it s important to understand some basic facts to keep yourself and your family safe.

They can also harm people producing rashes after. This year s warm spring has increased the risk of harmful blue green algal blooms in scotland s rivers and lochs ecologists have. There have been some reports of more serious illnesses including liver and brain damage. There are various types of algae that occur naturally in all natural waters but evidence suggests the one that poses the greatest risk to health is blue green algae cyanobacteria in freshwaters.

This can be harmful to both people and animals. Bloomin algae is a citizen science app for reporting the presence of harmful algal blooms of blue green algae. Some species of cyanobacteria produce toxins that affect animals and humans. Children are at greater risk than adults.

It might be a harmful blue green algae bloom if the water is blue green green yellow white brown purple or red has a paint like appearance or if there is scum on the water surface. What are the potential health effects of blue green algae and blue green algal toxins. If these toxins are ingested in large quantities they can present risks to human health and long term exposure of human skin to the toxins can cause irritation. These toxins can kill wild animals livestock and pets.

Photo gallery of blue green algae blooms. Yes blue green algae can cause skin rashes sickness stomach pains fever and headaches in humans. When the weather gets warmer blue green algae appears on our canals rivers and reservoirs. Is blue green algae a health risk to humans.

Blooms of blue green algae can form thick scums on the surface of the water and are often cause for concern because as they start to break down they can release a range of toxins. Contact with affected water can cause skin irritation mild respiratory effects and hayfever like symptoms. The most frequent and serious health. Health effects water affected by blue green algae may not be suitable for drinking recreation or agricultural use.

The app helps speed up public health warnings and can help teach you how to recognise the risks to you children and animals.