- Watching out for harmful blue algae while immersing in natural environments is crucial.
A bit of splashing, a dip, floating endlessly on an inflatable mattress – blessed is he who has a nearby body of water. Avoiding the harshness of chlorinated pools and their diving boards, the natural world still offers the best bathing experience. Most German swimming spots maintain excellent water quality, rating from good to excellent. However, when temperatures soar, waters can turn hazardous, leading to temporary closures of certain lakes.
Hazardous Algal Blooms
In 2023, around 68% of German swimming areas under scrutiny were subjected to brief closures due to unsanitary water conditions. Primarily, this issue stemmed from the unwelcome presence of blue-green algae. Cyanobacteria, these toxin-producing organisms thrive in Germany, enjoying prolonged warm temperatures, ample sunlight, and minimal wind. They bloom in both shallow lakes and the sea, forming vast expanses of harmful algae.**
Blue-green algae pose a threat to swimmers and aquatic life alike, as they release water-soluble toxins. Exposure to high levels can result in medical conditions ranging from stomach issues to joint pain, ear pain, and conjunctivitis. Additionally, allergies and skin irritations are common side effects.
To safeguard yourself, steer clear of waters exhibiting a greenish or blue-green hue, an algal film, a cloudy appearance, or a dead fish bloom on the surface. If you can't clearly see your feet while standing waist-deep, it might be best to avoid the water.
Skin Infections from Vibriosis
Vibriosis, a bacterial infection found in both fresh and saltwater, can cause an array of symptoms, such as diarrhea and fever, in individuals with weakened immune systems. Rod-shaped bacteria flourish when water temperatures surpass 20 degrees Celsius, often resulting in severe skin infections. Hyperthermia and bacterial sepsis is a grim possibility.
Swimmer's Itch from Cercariae
Intense itching, skin redness, and hives after swimming may indicate an infestation of swim-induced dermatitis, curated by cercariae. These larvae of tapeworms, while preferring animal hosts, can affect humans, causing an itchy allergic reaction upon skin penetration. While humans usually serve as an unsuitable host, the cercariae do not advance further, ultimately dying.
Swimmer's itch is generally harmless but persistent. In some severe cases, cercariaes infection may result in fever and shock. Alleviate itching with creams, but refrain from scratching to avoid skin infections. The condition typically subsides within 10 to 20 days, provided you take preventative measures: avoid shallow shoreline areas, rinse in freshwater after swimming, and ensure thorough skin scrubbing.
You can monitor the state of German bathing waters through the Environment Agency's map.
Sources: Umweltbundesamt, BUND, RKI, Sozialministerium
The presence of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, is a significant contributor to the temporary closures of German swimming areas due to harmful algal blooms. These toxin-producing organisms can pose a threat to both swimmers and aquatic life, causing a range of medical conditions upon exposure.
To prevent contact with blue-green algae, it is advisable to avoid waters exhibiting certain characteristics, such as a greenish or blue-green hue, an algal film, a cloudy appearance, or a dead fish bloom on the surface. Additionally, if you cannot clearly see your feet while standing waist-deep, it might be best to avoid the water.
