NHS Tayside has warned people in Dundee, Angus and Perth and Kinross to be on the lookout for blooms of potentially hazardous blue-green algae in the region’s waterways.
Blue-green algae is a common seasonal occurrence and waters that have been affected by agricultural, domestic or industrial discharges are most at risk.
People and animals can be affected as a result of direct contact with water affected by blue-green algae and NHS Tayside is advising the public especially people participating in water sports, anglers and dog owners to be alert to the blooms.
Dr Julie Cavanagh, consultant in public health medicine for NHS Tayside said, “Canoeists, wind surfers and swimmers who come into contact with the algal scum or who accidentally swallow affected water can suffer from complaints such as skin rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, or pains in muscles and joints.”
She added, “Dog owners should keep an eye on their pets especially if they come into contact with water which could be affected.
“The public should be reassured that public water supplies are always treated to prevent any harmful effects to health due to blue-green algae.”
Initial monitoring has already identified blue-green algal blooms in some of the area’s watercourses this year.
The Tayside water courses that are being monitored for blue-green algal blooms this summer are the reservoirs at Backwater, Clatto, Den of Ogil, Glenogil, Lintrathen, and Monikie and Forfar Loch, Loch Lee, Rescobie Loch and Loch Turret.
Loch Leven has permanent notices displayed advising the public about the appearance and risks of algal blooms.
Where monitoring reveals higher than acceptable levels of algal bloom, warning notices will be posted.
Anyone who finds a loch, pond or river they suspect is affected by blue-green algae and which is not displaying a warning sign should contact their local environmental health service.