Warning of blue-green algae in Bautzen reservoir

After a "clearly visible blue-green algae infestation" was detected in the Bautzen reservoir, the health authority has advised against swimming in the reservoir. According to a statement from the Bautzen district office on Friday, the algae can have a skin-irritating or toxic effect. They can be recognized by "a strong greenish turbidity of the water; in the case of a strong algae bloom by green streaks and creamy, slimy layers on the water", it said.

If you can no longer see your feet in knee-deep water or streaks are visible on the water, then the health department advises against bathing, according to the statement. People should also be careful not to swallow water containing blue-green algae. "If you experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or skin irritation after bathing in water with a high blue-green algae content, you should consult a doctor," the office advises. The blue-green algae were discovered during an on-site inspection as part of the ongoing monitoring of the quality requirements of the Bautzen dam bathing water. According to the district administration office, mass accumulations of blue-green algae are very dependent on the wind and weather and can also dissipate again within a few days, "so that it is then safe to swim again."