As the summer season heats up, so does the chance for algae growth in Ohio’s lakes, streams and ponds.
Sometimes visible as blue-green carpets of scum floating on the water’s surface, these blooms can release toxins that trigger various health problems — from benign rashes to liver damage, and in some cases difficulty breathing and death.
Recognizing the danger algal blooms can pose, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (DNR) last year issued an advisory on its website, explaining the dangers and symptoms of algae as well as how to spot hazardous algal blooms in the water. Here is a summary of the DNR’s guidance, taken from their website at ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/discover-and-learn/land-water/inland-lakes/harmful-algal-blooms-habs:
What are blue-green algae? Cyanobacteria, often called blue-green algae, are bacteria naturally found in Ohio lakes, ponds and slow-moving streams. Some — but not all — can produce harmful algal blooms (HABs) that can release compounds toxic to the nervous system or liver. Symptoms can occur in people exposed to water with high-enough concentrations.
What are the symptoms of exposure? Symptoms of toxic algal exposure can include rashes, hives or skin blisters, runny nose, sore throat, and asthma-like symptoms for skin exposure. If contaminated water is ingested, these side effects may occur: severe diarrhea and vomiting, liver and kidney toxicity, weakness, salivation, tingly fingers, numbness and dizziness, difficulty breathing, and death.
Is it safe to eat fish caught from HAB-contaminated water? Some studies have shown that cyanotoxins can accumulate in fish in waters with high toxin levels. While there have been no confirmed reports of cyanotoxin-related human health effects related to fish consumption, there are few data on cyanotoxins on which to base judgments about health risk. Should you decide to consume fish, you would do so at your own risk; and you should remove the intestines, fat and skin, consuming only the fillet.
If you, a child or pet have been swimming in water with high algae levels, immediately rinse off with clean, fresh water. This is vital for pets, which could ingest contaminated water by licking their fur. Seek medical treatment as soon as possible if you think you, your pet or your livestock might have been poisoned by toxic HABs.
