Toxic algae found in Tuscan waters

(ANSA) - Grosseto, July 7 - 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.