That smelly, gooey, blue-green film that blankets the water in the late summer not only looks gross, but it could also endanger your health. Blue-green algae blooms can release toxins that once get ingested, inhaled or rubbed against the skin can lead to diarrhea, vomiting and skin rashes – persistent exposure can lead to more serious health problems. These same toxins have been known to make pets sick and cause massive kills of fish and other sea life such as dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, manatees and birds.
Viewer Tip: Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself, your family and your pets from the harmful effects of algal blooms.
- Don’t swim in it! Obey signs that prohibit swimming or other recreational activities where algal blooms are present. While some algal blooms are
usually visible, others are not, so trust the sign!
For more weather and environment tips, visit Earth Gauge!
(Sources: Centers for Disease Control. “Harmful Algal Blooms.”; Ohio Department of Health. “Harmful Algal Blooms.” Accessed online April 5, 2012. Image courtesy of Dr. Jennifer L. Graham, USGS.)
