RI Health Officials Warn Residents Of Harmful Algae Blooms

RHODE ISLAND — The Rhode Island Department of Health is reminding all residents to be on the lookout for harmful algae blooms as the weather gets warmer and more people flock to lakes, rivers and ponds.

In freshwaters, blooms are caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are naturally present in bodies of water. Increased temperatures, slow-moving water, and excessive amounts of nutrients cause the cyanobacteria to grow excessively and create potentially harmful blooms.

These algae blooms are capable of producing toxins, which can be harmful to humans and animals. During an algae bloom, all recreation including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking should be avoided. People also should not ingest untreated water or eat fish from affected water bodies. Pet owners should not allow their pals to drink or swim in this water.

Almy Pond in Newport is currently experiencing an algae bloom, RIDOH officials said after making an initial site visit.

Members of the public should be on the lookout for these harmful blooms and know to avoid affected waters, should they encounter one before warnings have been posted.

Affected waters may be bright to dark green in color and have dense, floating algal mats on the water's surface. The water may look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese. Should these conditions be observed, it is best to refrain from contact with the water and keep pets from entering the water. Skin contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and/or throat.

Common health effects associated with ingesting water containing blue-green algae include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Rarer health effects include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at particular risk for health effects associated with harmful algae blooms.

If you come into contact with water affected by a harmful algae bloom, rinse your skin with clean water as soon as possible and, when you get home, take a shower and wash your clothes. If your pet comes into contact with the water, immediately wash your pet with clean water. Call a veterinarian if your animal shows any symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning including loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness that occurs within a day or so after being in contact with water.

People who have had contact with water with algae blooms and who experience the symptoms described above should contact a healthcare provider.

To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact DEM's Office of Water Resources at 222-4700 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom. For a list of current advisories, visit: www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen