Blue Green Algae Health Risks

Cyanobacteria or blue green algae occur worldwide especially in calm nutrient rich waters.

Blue green algae health risks.

Harmful blue green algae blooms. Cyanobacteria also referred to as blue green algae are microscopic organisms that live primarily in fresh water and salt water at the surface and below. Some species of blue green algae produce harmful toxins which take effect when eaten inhaled or skin contact is made. Some species of cyanobacteria produce toxins that affect animals and humans.

Photo gallery of blue green algae blooms. People consider spirulina a superfood due to its excellent nutritional content and health benefits. Gilroy dj kauffman kw hall ra et al. Blue green algae blooms appeared earlier and on more lakes this summer than usual.

Contact information for information on lakes in wisconsin contact. Blue green algae are microscopic organisms that can form dense blooms in surface waters. People and animals should avoid blooms because blue green algae can cause health effects. Children might be more at risk for getting sick from blue green algae because they often spend more time in the water and may swallow contaminated water by accident.

Health effects water affected by blue green algae may not be suitable for drinking recreation or agricultural use. People may be exposed to cyanobacterial toxins by drinking or bathing in contaminated water. How does blue green algae affect human health. Environ health perspect 2000 108 435 9.

Skin irritation and rash. 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. Blue green algae and health brochure is available in portable document format pdf 533kb 2 pp view and order hab publications. Harmful algal blooms are a major environmental problem in all 50 states.

Algal blooms can be toxic. They usually multiply and bloom when the water is warm stagnant and rich in nutrients phosphorus and nitrogen from sources such as fertilizer runoff or septic tank overflows. If you have contact e g swimming boating with water containing blue green algae it can cause. Contact with affected water can cause skin irritation mild respiratory effects and hayfever like symptoms.

Wisconsin dnr habs division of water bureau of water quality. What are the potential health effects of blue green algae and blue green algal toxins. 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. Assessing potential health risks from microcystin toxins in blue green algae dietary supplements.

Keep people and pets away from water that is green scummy or smells bad. Spirulina is a type of blue green algae that people can take as a dietary supplement.