Ghent (The Brussels Morning newspaper): Blue-green algae found in Ghent’s waterways can produce toxins causing health issues if ingested or upon skin contact. Avoid water activities in affected areas until resolved.
It has been said that blue-green algae also known as cyanobacteria can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These toxins can lead to symptoms such as stomach and intestinal problems if ingested and can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues if there is contact with contaminated water. The Flemish Waterway discovered blue-green algae in the Oude Dokken area in Ghent. Tests carried out at different spots in the Oude Dokken confirmed the presence of these algae. This finding indicates that the water quality might be compromised posing potential health risks for individuals who interact with or drink the water from this area. The Flemish Waterway is expected to implement measures to address the problem and reduce the health hazards for the public.
What health risks are associated with blue-green algae in Ghent?
Algea were found in different water areas in Ghent like Achterdok, Handelsdok, Houtdok, Tolhuisdok and Voorhaven. These algae can make toxins that are bad for health so it’s not safe to touch the water there. The Ghent city council has said not to swim in those areas because the water might not be good. Now they’re also saying not to do water sports like kayaking, canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding there. They warn that these activities could be risky for health and if people still do them it’s at their own risk.They said that this is to keep everyone safe from the toxins made by the blue-green algae.
The Watersportbaan and Blaarmeersen areas in Ghent don’t have the blue-green algae issue like the other places. It’s safe to swim and do water sports there. These spots are free from the algae problem and are still safe for everyone to enjoy as long as there are no other problems.
