Toxic Blue-Green Algae Blooms Found In 3 Rhode Island Lakes, Ponds

PORTSMOUTH, RI — Rhode Islanders are encouraged to avoid contact with three bodies of water because of the discovery of toxic blue-green algae blooms, the Rhode Island Department of Health said Tuesday.

The three bodies of water where toxic blooms were found are Boone Lake in Exeter, Thurston Gray Pond in Portsmouth, and Little Beach in Smithfield and Johnston.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that harm people and pets.

All contact with the water should be avoided, including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking. Water should not be ingested by drinking or eating fish from the water, and pets should also be kept away.

Skin contact with contaminated water can cause skin, nose, eyes, or throat irritation. Ingesting the water can cause stomachache, vomiting or nausea. More rare, serious health issues can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage or nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at most risk of becoming seriously ill from contact with toxins in the water.

Anyone in contact with contaminated water should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible and bathe once at home. Pets should be kept from licking algae off their fur, and cleaned as soon as possible. Watch for signs of 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, the Department of Health said.

Blue-green algae toxins can still be in the water even after the bloom is no longer visible. The advisory will remain in place until further notice.