Swimmers in Groningen are being warned to avoid certain outdoor swimming spots due to health risks. The Hoornseplas has received a negative swimming advisory after recent checks found signs of swimmer’s itch. This condition, caused by flatworm larvae in the water, leads to red rashes and intense itching.
The larvae come from bird droppings, infect snails in the water, and can then burrow into human skin—causing allergic reactions that may last several days or even weeks. While not dangerous, it’s highly uncomfortable. Around 40% of people who swim in affected water develop symptoms.
Hoornseplas a repeat offender
Swimmer’s itch is a recurring problem at Hoornseplas. Last summer, efforts were made to remove snails from the water to control the issue, and those efforts saw some success. However, the parasite has returned this year. Authorities are again discouraging people from swimming in the lake until the water is clear.
Those still looking for a safe place to swim are advised to choose Paterswoldsemeer, Ruskenveen, Stadsstrand, Kardingeplas, or the newly opened Springervijver in the Stadspark, where no issues have been reported.
Other places to avoid
Besides Hoornseplas, the following locations in the province currently have warnings due to poor water quality, swimmer’s itch, or blue-green algae:
Reitdiep near Garnwerd – risk of stomach/intestinal complaints
Botjeszwebaai near Zuidbroek – risk of stomach/intestinal complaints
Ruitershorn near Muntendam
Moekesgat near Ter Apel
Wedderbergen lake
Kemperpark in Bellingwolde – presence of blue-green algae
Berkenplas on Schiermonnikoog – swimmer’s itch present
Langebosch near Borgerswold in Veendam
A full and regularly updated list of safe swimming spots can be found at zwemwater.nl.
