Three communes surrounding Lake Bourget in Savoie continue to enforce a ban on swimming.
Lake Bourget, located in the picturesque region of Savoy, is currently under a swimming ban due to the suspected presence of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae.
The ban, enforced by municipal decree on Monday, August 11, affects three communes around the lake: Le Bourget-du-Lac, Viviers-du-Lac, and Vions. The decision to institute the ban was made based on the "Precautionary Principle," as Michel Frugier, vice-president of the Grand Lac agglomeration community, stated.
The agency responsible for taking samples related to the suspected cyanobacteria presence is the ARS. Samples taken by the ARS on Monday, August 11, have been sent to a laboratory in Lyon, and the results will be known on Tuesday evening.
Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms that can develop in freshwater surfaces, especially during the summer period. Some strains of cyanobacteria can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. Possible symptoms of exposure to these toxins include skin irritations, abdominal pain, vomiting, respiratory problems, headaches, dizziness, vision problems, or muscle pain.
In the case of Lake Bourget, the symptoms and risks associated with cyanobacteria are not unfamiliar. The public health risk due to the production of cyanotoxins like microcystins and anatoxins can contaminate drinking water supplies and recreational waters. Ecological risks include reduced oxygen levels in water leading to fish kills and disruption of aquatic ecosystems. Economic risks can arise from restricted recreational and commercial use of the water body, impacting tourism and local communities.
However, monitoring and management efforts have been crucial to controlling cyanobacterial blooms and minimizing exposure risks, particularly during warm months when blooms tend to peak.
The prefecture has also mentioned precautionary measures due to three dogs showing symptoms after swimming in the affected communes. The prefecture has reminded that Lake Bourget is located in Savoy.
The swimming ban will remain in effect until at least Tuesday evening, when the results from the samples taken by the ARS will be known. It is essential for the safety of all who enjoy Lake Bourget to adhere to the swimming ban and await further updates.
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