Recreation ban issued for Mol's Kanaalplas due to blue-green algae outbreak

Residents and visitors in Mol, Belgium, are advised to avoid contact with the Kanaalplas at Zilvermeerhaven Port Aventura, as a recreation ban has been imposed due to the detection of blue-green algae. The municipality has warned that contact with the contaminated water can lead to various health problems.

Symptoms of exposure can include skin irritation, stomach and intestinal complaints, headaches, and fever. While all recreational activities involving direct water contact, such as swimming and water sports, were already prohibited, the ban now extends to activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, rowing, and sailing.

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The recreation ban applies to the entire water surface of the Kanaalplas on Zilvermeerlaan. During a check, services detected a suspicious floating layer on the water. Further investigation showed that it concerns cyanobacteria, better known as blue-green algae.

"If you do come into contact with the water, shower as soon as possible. If you develop health problems afterward, consult a doctor," the Mol municipality advised. The algae, scientifically known as cyanobacteria, forms a suspicious floating layer on the water's surface, prompting the immediate restrictions.

The recreation ban will remain in place until the floating layer has completely disappeared. Additionally, water analyses must confirm that the concentration of harmful substances has returned to safe levels before recreational activities can resume.

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If you do come into contact with the water? Shower as soon as possible. If you develop health problems afterward, consult a doctor.