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Algae can be more than a simple nuisance and may present a serious health hazard. Residents should be cautious when swimming, boating or even just cooling off in waters with algae.
“Blue-green algae present special problems,” said Michael Nesheiwat, interim county health commissioner. “This type is a toxin-producing cyanobacteria, which, if swallowed, is harmful to humans and animals. At high levels, it can cause nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. It can also cause irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract.”
Some algae are harmless and are an important part of the food chain. However, certain types grow quickly and form blooms, which can cover all or portions of a lake. Because it is hard to tell a harmful algal bloom from a harmless one, it is best to avoid swimming, boating or otherwise playing in or drinking water with a bloom.
“To be safe, residents should avoid contact with any water that has a floating covering or scum on its surface, is discolored or has an unpleasant odor," said Robert Morris, director of environmental health at the Putnam County Department of Health. "Blue-green algae can form a thick mat on the water surface resembling paint. It can also range in colors from green, blue, brown, yellow, grey or even red.”
While not all algal blooms are hazardous, the county recommends the following precautions for all of them:
- Avoid or limit exposure to water when these algal blooms occur. Swimming, water-skiing, wading, playing by the water, etc., may cause accidental swallowing, skin exposure or inhalation of airborne droplets. Use added caution with open cuts or sores.
- Do not allow young children or pets to play in water where an algal bloom is present
- Wash hands and body thoroughly if any exposure occurs
- Do not use any water from lakes with algal blooms for drinking unless treated through a municipal water treatment plant
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