The municipality of Alblasserdam has confirmed an outbreak of botulism in the water located between the Middelwetering and the Oosteromse Wiel, behind the Oude Gereformeerde Gemeente in Nederland. Officials issued a public alert on Friday, August 7, 2026, after identifying the presence of the toxin-producing Clostridium botulinum bacteria in the area. Local authorities have installed warning signs to caution residents against contact with the water.
Public Safety Measures and Health Risks
While the illness is rare in humans in the Netherlands, it is frequently identified in fish and waterfowl.
The municipality advises residents to keep dogs away from the water, as the animals should neither swim in nor drink from the affected areas. Furthermore, the public is instructed to avoid touching any dead fish or birds found in the vicinity. Residents are encouraged to report sightings of deceased wildlife via the Fixi platform or the municipality’s app. Those planning to swim elsewhere are advised to check the status of local swimming locations via the website Zwemwater.nl.
Did You Know?
Botulism is caused by toxins from the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, a condition that occurs more frequently in aquatic wildlife, such as fish and birds, than in the human population in the Netherlands.
Escalating Reports of Wildlife Mortality
As early as July 24, a local resident reported that the duck population in that area had disappeared. The resident noted that the animal ambulance had collected sick waterfowl, and local fishermen reported discovering deceased white call ducks. At that time, no warning signage had been installed at the Koekoekstraat location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I find a dead bird or fish?
Do not touch the animal with your bare hands. You are advised to report the location of the deceased animal through the Fixi platform or the municipal app.
Is it safe to let my dog swim in the area?
No. The municipality explicitly advises against allowing dogs to swim in or drink from the water between the Middelwetering and the Oosteromse Wiel.
Who can I contact for more information?
Residents can reach out to the GGD for general questions regarding botulism during office hours at 078-7708500.
Have you observed changes in the wildlife or water quality in your local area recently?
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