High temperatures and low tidal
currents have encouraged the spread of a marine algae along the
Tuscan coast that can cause irritation to eyes and the
respiratory system, according to Italian environmental
association Arpat.
Ostreopsis ovata, a microscopic algae that is common in
tropical waters, has been found in the sea around Ansedonia and
Massa on the Tuscan coast, based on Arpat's monitoring.
"Arpat has revealed the presence of the marine algae
Ostreopsis ovata, linked mainly to the temperature increase and
scarce water currents," said Monica Paffetti, mayor of the
coastal town of Orbetello.
She warned that direct contact with the algae could cause
irritation of the eyes and and respiratory tract and said
authorities were monitoring the situation. The algae has
appeared periodically in the Tuscan seas since 1998.
The Arpat agency says on its web site that inhalation or
contact with the algae can cause the development of a type of
flu, sometimes accompanied by inflammation of the skin and eyes.
A heat wave across Europe has sent temperatures soaring
well above the seasonal average, reaching between 35 and 40
degrees in Italy.
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