Harmful Algae Bloom Shuts Down Marblehead Pond

MARBLEHEAD, MA — The Marblehead Health Department shut down swimming and recreation near Redd's Pond because of what it said appears to be a harmful algae bloom.

The Health Department said the blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, was spotted on the pond and it was shut down on Monday. These blooms may produce toxins that make both people and animals sick.

Fishing, boating and swimming are prohibited for both people and pets during the closure as contact with the algae in areas of concentration — even on the shore — may result in illness.

Ingestion of the toxins can cause acute gastrointestinal distress, affect kidney, liver and neurological function and in severe cases death.

Dogs that have been in the area of Redd's Pond should be bathed thoroughly as they can lick the algae that accumulated on their fur. A dog that shows signs of vomiting, staggering, drooling or convulsions should see a veterinarian immediately.

In Massachusetts and many other states, canine deaths have been documented due to the ingestion of harmful algae.

Algae blooms often occur during stretches of prolonged summer heat and can last for weeks, or disappear relatively quickly. The Marblehead Health Department said it will coordinate with the state Department of Public Health on water sampling over the coming weeks to determine when the ban can be lifted.

Those with questions or concerns can reach out to the Marblehead Health Department at 781-631-0212.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)