• The presence of this toxic algae along the Basque coast has been divided by 100 in three weeks according to the latest analyzes by Ifremer.

  • The ARS of Nouvelle-Aquitaine has identified 395 people exposed to the toxicity of this algae, which results in symptoms resembling the flu.

  • Monitoring of the Ostreopsis algae, which had already been observed in the past in the Basque Country, will be set up.

The results of the new samples taken by Ifremer came out on Friday.

The ARS (Regional Health Agency) of Nouvelle-Aquitaine indicates that they “show a sharp decrease in the abundances of Ostreopsis since the first sample taken on August 3 (divided by 100 in three weeks).

"On the other hand," these samples have not yet made it possible to identify the offending species (Ostreopsis siamensis and / or Ostreopsis ovata).

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The samples were taken by Ifremer on August 16, at the Erromardie site (Saint-Jean-de-Luz), which contained the highest concentrations of microalgae during the previous samples.

After experiencing peaks from August 8 to 13, reports are decreasing

In addition, the analysis of reports by the Poison Control Center (CAP) of Bordeaux made it possible to identify 395 cases. After experiencing peaks over the period from August 8 to 13, these reports are also decreasing. “Most of the people exposed describe symptoms of low severity, which can in particular be similar to the signs of an influenza (headache, fatigue, fever, body aches, cough, etc.), but also skin irritations and more rarely tremors, muscle pain and difficulty breathing. "

“There are a few cases with symptoms that persist beyond 48 hours, continues the ARS, and there are some very rare more severe cases (less than ten), some of which have been the subject of a short hospital stay ( respiratory disorders).

The follow-up of these patients is underway by the Anti-poison Center (CAP).

Note that some people report a metallic taste in water.

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A water analysis monitoring system

Knowledge of the "conditions of presence of this microalga on our coasts, of its development and of its health impacts being still partial", a system for monitoring water analyzes and health reports will be made permanent.

The Ostreopsis algae, already observed in the past in the Basque Country, had been reported this year at the end of July, leading to the closure of some beaches for less than 24 hours.

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