Swimming has been banned temporarily at several beaches in the Lagos and Vila do Bispo areas due to the presence of toxic algae in the water.
The algae, ostreopsis, produces toxins that can cause respiratory problems, dermatitis and conjunctivitis in people.
According to local authorities, this algae exists on the coast of Morocco and rarely reaches the Portuguese coast.
The Algarve water authority (ARH) in conjunction with the Regional Health Department and local maritime police, decided to close the beaches of D. Ana, Camilo, Porto de Mós, Luz, Cabanas Velhas, Burgau, Almádena, Boca do Rio, Furnas, Zavial and Ingrina on September 23 after water analysis was carried out.
It is expected that the beaches will remain closed to swimming until at least until tomorrow (Tuesday, September 27).
