Health & Fitness

Lincoln's Olney Pond Pond Infected With Harmful Algae

Ingesting the algae can cause nervous system and liver damage.

LINCOLN, RI — Dangerous algae blooms were spotted in Lincoln's Olney Pond, state agencies have reported.

The Rhode Island Department of Public Health and Department of Environmental Management have warned the public to stay clear of the pond.

"People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies," the release said. "Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water."

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Contact with the algae "can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat," according to the release.

"Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea," the release said. "Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage."

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