Bule-green algae remains a threat

Harmful blue-green algae blooms continue to threaten Central New York and Madison County.

Harmful blue- green algae blooms continue to threaten lakes in the Central New York area includi ng Madi - son County. Harmful blooms can grow quickly in warm, shallow, stagnant surface water that gets a lot of sunlight. Algae blooms should be avoided and reported.

“Harmful algae blooms may come and go rapidly, but tend to become more common as the summer progresses,” said Madison County’s Environmental Health Director Geoffrey Snyder. “A harmful algae bloom may be present if the water is blue-green or otherwise strongly colored, has a paint-like appearance, and may have floating mats or scum. Blue-green algae can produce toxins harmful to persons and pets who come in contact with or otherwise swallow or inhale water with blooms. Residents are encouraged to avoid blooms and report their presence.

Residents should avoid swimming, boating, or wading in waters with algae blooms present. If you come into contact with blue-green algae, rinse off with clean clear water. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of diarrhea, nausea or vomiting; skin, eye, or throat irritation; and allergic reactions or breathing difficulty.

Protect yourself from harmful blue-green algae:

• Avoid exposure to all visible algae blooms is the number-one precaution. Do not swim, play by the water, wade, boat or fish in areas where algal blooms are

present to avoid accidental swallowing, skin exposure, or inhalation of airborne droplets. Use added caution with open cuts or sores. Don’t eat fish caught from areas with blooms.

• Do not allow young children or pets to play in water where an algal bloom is present

• Wash hands and body thoroughly with clean water if contact with an algal bloom occurs, and

• Do not use any wa- ter from untreated surface water for drinking, washing, or cooking.

Report algae blooms to the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation at HABsInfo@ dec.ny.gov, the Madison County Health Department at 315-366-2526, or to NewYork State Department of Health at harmfulalgae@health.ny.gov.