Large strandings of algae called “sargassum” can have negative health effects.
- In recent years, algae called “sargassum” have proliferated in the Caribbean.
- When sargassum decomposes, it has harmful effects on the health of people nearby.
- As a result, the HCSP is issuing new recommendations to combat sargassum.
Faced with the increase in the presence of algae called “sargassum” in the Caribbean arc, the HCSP (High Council for Public Health) just reminded that “the priority actions to be taken are those aimed at avoiding strandings on beaches and that sheltering populations only constitutes a precautionary measure.”
Sargassum: the HCSP issues new recommendations
The HCSP therefore recommends the implementation of a collection channel as far upstream as possible, better anticipation of stranding episodes and the finalization of an atlas of contaminated sites. “The establishment of a global and coherent sector from the identification to the elimination of algae” must also be considered, add public health experts.
The HCSP also recommends improving the involvement of the people concerned before episodes of health thresholds being exceeded, in particular by setting up reception areas, shelter and information for the population.
Finally, the HCSP invites “improve knowledge and understanding of the health effects linked to the recurrence of acute and chronic exposure to sargassum”.
Sargassum: the effects of these algae on health
Sargassum is not toxic in itself but becomes toxic once washed up on beaches. “Significant gas releases are created during their putrefaction, which can cause olfactory nuisances and health problems”explains the ARS of Martinique.
Large sargassum strandings can thus result in irritation of the eyes (conjunctivitis, discomfort in bright light) and the respiratory tract (rhinitis, hoarseness, cough, chest pain).
“People with asthma are particularly sensitive to the toxic effects of these algae, as are young children and pregnant women,” precise the ARS of Martinique.
Health: how to explain the proliferation of sargassum?
Why have sargassum proliferated in recent years in the Caribbean? “This phenomenon is the consequence of a new organization of marine currents crossing the Atlantic in the northern hemisphere,” indicates the ARS of Martinique.
As noted the Ministry of Ecological Transition, “the responsibility of human action” and global warming could also strongly contribute to the phenomenon.
