Cyanobacteria in urban springs

Health implications and risks to public health

Abstract

Objective - To conduct a systematic literature review on the environmental implications and public health risks arising from the proliferation of cyanobacteria, which has become increasingly common in urban water sources, and to discuss the toxin production potential present in some species, which can compromise the multiple uses of water, especially for human supply. It also addresses the frequent causes of their proliferation in water bodies and prevention methods as a control strategy given the Brazilian reality.

Methodology - A narrative literature review in high-impact databases using individual and combined keywords in databases such as ScienceDirect, Web of Science, and others.

Originality/Relevance - Updating the state of the art to generate new points of focus for future research.

Results - A detailed analysis was conducted on the risks that cyanobacteria pose to human and animal health, with a description of various symptoms associated with exposure. Regardless of the presence of preventive actions, the need to establish and maintain continuous water quality monitoring programs is highlighted. When the presence of cyanobacteria is detected, the implementation of corrective measures using effective technologies for the control and removal of these organisms is recommended. The presence of cyanobacteria when detected, it is recommended to implement corrective measures using effective technologies for control and removal of these organisms. Furthermore, it is concluded that managing excessive nutrient input—from domestic sewage and surface runoff from irrigation water, as well as from other sources that contribute nutrients to water bodies—can be an efficient and low-cost strategy. Finally, the importance of deepening the study of cyanobacteria, covering all these aspects, is emphasized to develop effective measures for controlling and preventing their proliferation.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions - The literature review contributes to the understanding of the current state of research on the subject and allows for envisioning potential paths for new studies and discoveries in the field.

Social and Environmental Contributions - It allowed for an understanding of the real and potential risks of the presence of cyanobacteria in urban water sources and the search for remedial and proactive solutions.