Archive for July, 2015


5 years ago

and a week or so …  

 

New information about lakes with blue-green algae bloom notices has been posted today, July 3, on the DEC Blue-Green Algal Bloom Notices webpage.

This week, 6 waterbodies were added to the notification list, and blooms were reported in several locations in the state. This information is provided from about 130 waterbodies sampled in the last two to three weeks by DEC monitoring programs, volunteers and public reports.

Because waterbodies may have blue-green algae blooms that have not been reported to DEC, we recommend avoiding contact with floating rafts, scums and discolored water – If you see it, avoid it and report it!



Know the symptoms of blue-green algae exposure

  • nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • skin or throat irritation
  • allergic reactions or breathing difficulties

These symptoms may be mistaken for common gastrointestinal distress, for example, food poisoning, heat exposure, or other illness. Regardless of the cause of the illness, these symptoms may require medical attention. If you have been exposed to blue green algae blooms and experience any of the symptoms, seek medical assistance. More information about these symptoms can be found on the Department of Health Blue-green Algae web page.

Report your symptoms



The New York State Department of Health is collecting information to evaluate the frequency and intensity of illness and other problems from blue green algae exposure. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should send an email summarizing these symptoms and the location of the bloom to harmfulalgae@health.ny.gov and your local health department.

Report a suspected bloom

If you suspect you have seen a blue-green algae bloom, or you, your family, or pet has been in contact with a blue-green algae bloom, please follow the instructions for reporting a bloom to DEC.