A blue-green algae health warning has been issued for parts of the St. Johns River. (DOH-Duval)
Duval County, Florida – The Duval County, Florida Department of Health (DOH-Duval) issued a health alert Monday for harmful blue-green algae toxins in portions of the St. Johns River.
The advisory, issued after water samples were taken on Sept. 23, advises the public to use caution in and around the St. Johns River near Mandarin Point, according to the FDOH.
Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria that is common in Florida’s freshwater, and can often grow rapidly and accumulate discolored water, producing floating mats that have unpleasant commands. Its appearance looks like scum, bubbles, or paint of different colors on the water surface.
For more information on algae blooms, visit Protecting Florida Together.
In addition to the warning, DOH-Duval also provided a list of precautionary measures for residents and visitors.
Do not drink alcohol, swim, walk, use a watercraft, or touch water with visible blooms.
If you come into contact with algae, discolored water, or water with an unpleasant odor, wash your skin and clothing with soap and water.
Keep pets and livestock away from the area to avoid contact with water. Waters with algae blooms are unsafe for animals. Pets and livestock should use alternative water sources when algae blooms occur.
Do not cook or wash dishes in water contaminated by algae growth. Boiling water does not remove toxins.
It is safe to eat fillets from healthy fish caught in blooming freshwater lakes. Wash the fish fillets with tap or bottled water, discard the entrails, and thoroughly cook the fish.
Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.
If you have been exposed or are experiencing related algae growth effects, please contact us below.
Algae blooms: DEP monitors algae blooms and collects samples for analysis. Blooms can be reported to the DEP online or by calling toll-free 1-855-305-3903.
Human Health Effects: Report harmful algal blooms or symptoms of exposure to aquatic toxins to the Florida Poison Information Center. Call 800-222-1222 to speak to a poison expert.
Effects on animals: If you think your pet has become ill after ingesting or coming into contact with water contaminated with blue-green algae, contact your veterinarian.
Fish Kills: Dead, sick or unusually behaving fish or wildlife should be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission online or at 800-636-0511.
If you have any other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae, please call DOH-Duval at 904-253-1280.
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