Health / Blue-green algae confirmed in Clickimin Loch
FOLK in Lerwick have been warned to be cautious near Clickimin Loch after toxic blue-green algae has been confirmed in the loch.
The council’s environmental health service has received notification from SEPA, and warning notices have now been placed around the loch.
In a brief statement the council said: “Parents with young children and dog owners are advised to be cautious in the area, as blue-green algae can present a toxic risk.
“Children and animals should not drink or enter the water, and should avoid contact with any algal scum.”
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.
Adjoining landowners and NHS Shetland have been advised.
The SIC added that at this stage there is no adverse effect on water supplies.
More information can be obtained from environmental health on 01595 745250 or e-mail ehadmin@shetland.gov.uk
