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Bathing ban in Juessee: Dangerously high blue-green algae concentration!
Increased blue-green algae concentration in the Juessee, Herzberg am Harz: Health authorities impose a bathing ban to protect health.
Bathing ban in Juessee: Dangerously high blue-green algae concentration!
A bathing ban was imposed in the Juessee in Herzberg am Harz, directly in the Göttingen district, after an increased concentration of blue-green algae was detected. Loud goettingen.de The health department of the city and district of Göttingen reacted immediately and banned swimming in the lake until further notice. This decision is urgent because blue-green algae produces toxic substances that can cause serious health problems - from vomiting and diarrhea to shortness of breath and hives.
Children and young children who come into contact with these toxic waters are particularly at risk. But the issue doesn't just affect the very little ones: dogs and other warm-blooded animals are also threatened by blue-green algae. The city of Herzberg am Harz and the State Health Office (NLGA) have been informed of the situation and a clear warning will be posted at Juessee.
Health risks from cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, is not just a seasonal phenomenon. During the bathing season they pose a serious health risk. How Umweltbundesamt.de reported, the toxic substances produced by these microorganisms can cause serious health problems when ingested, especially in young children. Symptoms such as skin irritations or gastrointestinal diseases are also caused by other pathogenic bacteria, but the presence of cyanobacteria has a special warning level.
To improve water quality and minimize hazards, some conditions are important. The nutrient status of the water plays a crucial role, especially the concentration of phosphorus, which can limit the growth of cyanobacteria. In less polluted waters, these microbes can compete for nutrients with other aquatic plants and phytoplankton.
The location at the Juessee
This situation could be further exacerbated by climate change, which could also negatively impact water quality in stagnant bodies of water. According to the monitoring data, satellite images do not show any clear trends, but the number of polluted lakes can increase in hot summers. In 2018, for example, there were particularly favorable conditions for the growth of cyanobacteria.
The city administration of Herzberg am Harz has now taken measures to inform the public about the dangers. The warning signs at Juessee are not only a request for caution, but also an urgent appeal to citizens to protect themselves and their animals from health risks. Given the reactionary measures, the city is prepared to continuously monitor the situation and communicate any developments.
The city’s contact points are available for further information or queries. The citizens' office is open daily to ensure that the concerns of the population are heard. Opening times are Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and contact can also be made by telephone on 05521 852 852 or via the online booking function, as on herzberg.de can be found.