Officials Warn Of Blue-Green Algae Bloom At Warwick Pond

WARWICK, RI — State officials are advising people to avoid contact with Warwick Pond due to a blue-green algae bloom. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that can harm humans and animals.

Friday's advisory came from the Rhode Island Department of Health and Department of Environmental Management.

People should not ingest water or eat fish from Warwick Pond, the agencies said. All recreation in the pond, including fishing, boating, and kayaking, should be avoided. Animals are especially at risk from exposure to the toxins, so owners should not allow dogs or other pets to drink or swim in the water. The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

Contact with water containing blue-green algae commonly causes irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, or throat. Stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea can occur. Rarer health effects include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at a particular risk. People who have had contact with affected waters and experience symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

Warwick Pond on Google Maps

If you come into contact with the water, rinse your skin with clean water as soon as possible. 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. Do not let the animal lick its fur. Call a veterinarian if your animal shows any symptoms within a day or so after being in contact with the water. People are cautioned that toxins may persist in the water after the blue-green algae bloom is no longer visible.

Blue-green algae blooms may be present in other Rhode Island waters. People are advised to avoid contact with waterbodies that show bright green coloration or dense floating algal mats on the water's surface. The water may look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese.

For more information and a list of current and historical advisories, go to www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen. Please send reports of suspected blue-green algae blooms, along with photographs, if possible, to DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov.