Illinois EPA warns people to be cautious of Cyanobacteria in lakes,
streams
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[June 19, 2021]
By Elyse Kelly
(The Center Square) – The Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency is warning residents keen on recreating
in the water to look out for cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green
algae, in Illinois’ waters, which can be toxic to humans and pets.
IEPA Public Information Officer Kim Biggs says Children and the elderly
are most susceptible to ill effects from the algal bloom.
“Symptoms from exposure can be as mild as just a rash or hives to
gastrointestinal issues, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea,” she said.
“Individuals who may be recreating on the water, for instance like
tubing or something like that, could potentially inhale droplets could
also experience some coughing and wheezing.”
There are multiple ways the algae can enter a person’s system, including
skin contact, ingestion or inhalation, according to Biggs.
“That’s why we do suggest that you wash off with soap and water after
you get out of the water, especially don’t eat without washing hands
with soap and water after being in lake or stream water because you
could ingest that way, but it could also be accidental ingestion just
from taking in water from being underwater or other activities that
you’re doing on the water,” she said.
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After swimming in a lake or river, pets should also
be washed, as they can ingest it through licking their fur, Biggs
pointed out.
Biggs says the cyanobacteria are found in all of
Illinois’ waters year-round, but summer is when it becomes a
potential problem, as warm water encourages the growth of
cyanobacteria.
“It’s only a concern when we see this rapid growth or development of
these larger algal blooms that could potentially release the toxins
into the water,” she said.
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Biggs notes residents should look out for the algae, especially in
shallow water with a lot of sun exposure.
“We see it a lot of times along the shoreline, even in dock areas
where the area’s receiving a lot of sunlight and it’s more shallow
rather than in open waters,” she said.
Biggs adds it can be found in lakes, streams and ponds, even on
private property.
If a person experiences symptoms that cause concern, they should
contact the Illinois Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. |