Information Bulletin
08 August 2006
Blue-Green Algae
Environmental Health has received notification that there is algae growth at the Stubba Water at Hamar, Sullom. It is probable that the water is contaminated with Blue Green Algae; although samples have been taken the results have not yet confirmed this.
As a precautionary measure, notices have been posted next to the loch warning that contact with the algal scum should be avoided.
Adjoining landowners and fishing interests have been advised of the situation, as have the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and Shetland NHS Board.
At this stage there is no adverse effect on water supplies.
Media Briefing Note:
- Blue-green Algae exist in fresh waters in Great Britain and throughout the world; they are noticed when their concentrations increase to form "blooms" and when they form scums - looking like blue-green paint - or when they collect on the shore line.
- Some Blue-green Algae may give rise to adverse medical effects - but not always. Effects on people coming into contact with toxic scums include skin rashes, eye irritations, vomiting and diarrhoea, fever and pains in muscles and joints. Toxic algae have caused deaths of livestock and dogs. The treatment of water supplies removes Blue-green Algae and additional treatment may be applied to destroy or remove toxins should they arise. The actions currently taken are precautionary.
- The behaviour of algae is erratic.
- The level of its toxicity can fluctuate; it can appear one day, be dispersed by the wind and mixing and re-accumulate at any time.
Ends.