Health advisory issued after toxic algae found in Blackamore Pond

Daniel Kittredge
Posted 10/23/14

A health advisory had been issued following the detection of blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, at Blackamore Pond in Cranston.

The Department of Health (HEALTH) and the Department of …

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Health advisory issued after toxic algae found in Blackamore Pond

Posted

A health advisory had been issued following the detection of blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, at Blackamore Pond in Cranston.

The Department of Health (HEALTH) and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) issued the warning earlier this month. The algae produces a dangerous toxin that, if touched or ingested, can be harmful to people and animals.

Residents are advised to avoid recreational activities such as swimming, boating or fishing at the pond until further notice.

The advisory is likely to remain in place through the year’s end.

Symptoms of skin exposure to the toxic include skin rashes and irritation of the nose, eyes or throat. Symptoms resulting from ingestion include stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.

Dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage and nervous system damage are rarer symptoms but may also result from exposure, health officials said.

“People who have been swimming in or otherwise in contact with Blackamore Pond and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider,” according to the health advisory.

“If you come into contact with the water, rinse your skin with clean water as soon as possible, and when you get home, take a shower and wash your clothes,” the advisory continues. “Similarly, if your pet comes in contact with the water, immediately wash it off with clean water. Do not let the animal lick algae off of its fur. Call a veterinarian if your animal shows any of the symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning, which include loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness that occurs within a day or so after being in contact with water. People are cautioned that toxins may persist in the water after the blue-green algae bloom is no longer visible.”

Blue-green algae may be present in water with a bright green coloration or dense floating algal mats that form on the surface.

“The water may look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese,” according to the health advisory.

To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact Brian Zalewsky in DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700, ext. 7145, or brian.zalewsky@dem.ri.gov.

Those with questions or concerns regarding cyanobacteria may visit www.health.ri.gov or call the HEALTH Information Line at 401-222-5960.

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