Stay Away From Smithfield's Georgiaville Pond: State

SMITHFIELD, RI — Harmful algae has infected Smithfield's Georgiaville Pond, two state agencies reported.

The Rhode Island Departments of Public Health and Environmental Management have warned the public to avoid contact with Georgiaville Pond.

"All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location," the two departments warned in a statement released Thursday.

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

Contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat, according to the statement.

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