Blue Green Algae Health Issues

Harmful algal blooms are a major environmental problem in all 50 states.

Blue green algae health issues.

People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and. A blue green algae bloom may not be producing toxins or producing enough toxin to cause a health concern. What are the potential health effects of blue green algae and blue green algal toxins. Gilroy dj kauffman kw hall ra et al.

Photo gallery of blue green algae blooms. Department of health issues alert for blue green algae toxins in cape coral s makai canal published. At this time toxins have not been confirmed. Red tides blue green algae and cyanobacteria are examples of harmful algal blooms that can have severe impacts on human health aquatic ecosystems and the economy.

Contact with affected water can cause skin irritation mild respiratory effects and hayfever like symptoms. A cautionary health advisory is issued when blue green algae is found and an alert is issued when toxins have been confirmed in the blue green algae. It might be a harmful blue green algae bloom if the water is blue green green yellow white brown purple or red has a paint like appearance or if there is scum on the water surface. Some species of blue green algae produce harmful toxins which take effect when eaten inhaled or skin contact is made.

August 25 2020 11 32 am edt updated. Not all algal blooms produce toxin. Please note that areas of haunted lake in which the blue green algae bloom is not visible can still be used for recreational purposes even while this blue green algae health advisory is in place. There are many species of blue green algae found in wisconsin lakes and rivers but only certain species can produce the algal toxins that cause illness.

Algal blooms can be toxic. Keep people and pets away from water that is green scummy or smells bad. Environ health perspect 2000 108 435 9. Are all blue green algae dangerous.

Health effects water affected by blue green algae may not be suitable for drinking recreation or agricultural use. A watch means that blue green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. Assessing potential health risks from microcystin toxins in blue green algae dietary supplements. If you suspect a problem related to blue green algae or if you require further information on health concerns and blue green algae please call.