Blue-green algae in the Pirk Reservoir — Authorities Lift Swimming Advisory

The Vogtlandkreis Health Department has lifted its swimming advisory due to blue-green algae in the Pirk Reservoir. According to the district administration, the cooler temperatures over the past few days have led to a significant decline in the previously observed massive proliferation of blue-green algae. As a result, there is no longer any reason to advise against swimming in the reservoir.

The agency had issued a warning against swimming in the reservoir a week ago. Water sports enthusiasts should also avoid the water, and animals should be kept away. Contact with blue-green algae—actually cyanobacteria—can lead to skin irritation, nausea, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Since this also applies to animals, they should likewise be kept away from the reservoir, the office had stated.