Bathing ban at Altmühlsee: Blue-green algae endanger the health of guests!
Due to increasing blue-green algae on the Altmühlsee, a bathing ban was issued for Schlungenhof and Muhr. Health risks exist.

Bathing ban at Altmühlsee: Blue-green algae endanger the health of guests!
The summer temperatures attract many people to Lake Altmühl, but there is currently a strict bathing ban in two bathing areas. How nn.de reported that due to the increasing concentration of blue-green algae in the region, swimming at Schlungenhof and Muhr am See was prohibited. Warning signs at the Wald lake center indicate that caution is required here too.
Blue-green algae, which are actually cyanobacteria, multiply particularly strongly in warm, dry weather with little wind. Damage to people and animals cannot be ruled out, and the health authorities react quickly: as soon as the legal limits are exceeded, bathing warnings or even bathing bans follow. These healthy measures are necessary because the toxic substances in blue-green algae can cause health problems in humans and animals, especially pregnant women, small children and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of poisoning range from nausea to diarrhea to serious respiratory illnesses nd.de.
Identify and avoid risks
Blue flowers in particular appear in large numbers as greenish streaks or even as carpets on the surface of the water. Dead fish can also be an indication of a dangerous accumulation. If you want to find out about possible pollution, you should always use official bathing areas where the water quality is checked regularly. The overview of warning signs on the beach is also important: yellow indicates a warning for swimming, while red indicates a general ban on swimming onmeda.de.
Bathers are urged to pay close attention to current warnings and local instructions as the situation can change quickly. Safety is particularly important after a swim in Lake Altmühl: It is recommended to take a thorough shower and possibly change clothes to remove any residue. If you swallow blue-green algae, regardless of the amount, you should consult a specialist medical practice if in doubt.
Regular checks and information
Given the risks, regular water samples and checks at the bathing areas are a matter of course. These take place monthly at Altmühlsee and other bodies of water, with the authorities carrying out weekly checks for blue-green algae. Information about the current situation is available on the health department's website at www.landkreis-wug.de/badegewaesser. Controlling the hygienic quality of bathing water is crucial for the safety of bathers.
Safe bathing fun can only be guaranteed if the current warnings are heeded and the necessary safety precautions are taken. Being more careful can help avoid unpleasant surprises while swimming!