Health Concerns Spur Independent SA Algal Bloom Research
Specialists created the Bloomin' Algae site to monitor health consequences of the SA bloom after discovering insufficient health information despite worries about sore throats, respiratory problems and mental health effects. Medical anthropologist Dr Amy McLennan is involved in the research group. The website features a disaster impact analysis and a community platform to submit health issues affecting people and animals. SA Health noted reports in March concerning skin and eye irritation along with coughing and breathlessness, among surfers. Mental health is becoming a growing concern.