Fifers warned on dangers of blue green algae on water this summer

It comes ahead of summer from NHS Fife with a reminder to look out for blooms of the potentially hazardous algae, also known as cyanobacteria, in the region’s waterways.

Blue-green algae are tiny organisms which develop naturally in lochs, ponds, reservoirs, rivers and the sea. In still and slow-moving waters, the algae can multiply during the summer to such an extent that they discolour the water making it appear green, blue-green or greenish brown. Shoreline mats of blue-green algae may appear and are usually coloured brown to black. Sometimes a scum may form on the surface of the water.

Some release toxins into the water - it is not possible to tell by looking which algae do or do not - and people and animals can become unwell through contact with water affected by them.

NHS Fife is advising the public, especially people undertaking water sports, anglers and dog owners, to be particularly vigilant.

People such as paddle boarders, wind surfers and swimmers who come into contact with blue-green algae scum, or who accidentally swallow affected water, can suffer from skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, or pains in muscles and joints. These symptoms are usually mild, but in some cases can be severe.

Fish caught in waters affected by blue-green algae blooms should not be eaten and not be fed to pets.

NHS Fife said the risk to small animals such as dogs is significant over the summer months as they tend to drink more water in the heat, and may eat shoreline crusts of algae. Dog owners should prevent their pets from coming into contact with affected water.

Where monitoring reveals higher than acceptable levels of algal bloom, warning notices will be posted at the affected waterways. Anyone who finds water which they suspect is affected by blue-green algae blooms and which is not displaying a warning sign, should contact their local environmental health service.