By Tiffany Williams –
In Glocester, Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) have issued a public advisory regarding Keech Pond. The advisory warns against any contact with the water due to the presence of toxins and/or high cell counts of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria. These findings were detected by the RIDOH State Health Laboratory from water samples collected by the DEM.
Blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals. The organisms have the ability to control their location in the water column, either sinking or floating, and their distribution can be influenced by factors such as wind, rain, and wakes from recreational activities.
Exposure to water containing blue-green algae can lead to skin irritation, affecting the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Ingesting water with algal toxins can result in symptoms such as stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. More severe effects may include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. It’s important to note that young children and pets are particularly vulnerable to the health effects associated with algal toxins. Anyone experiencing these symptoms after contact with affected ponds should seek medical advice from their healthcare provider.
If contact with the water occurs, it is recommended to immediately rinse the skin with clean water and, upon returning home, to take a shower and wash any clothes that may have come into contact with the water.
Pets can also be affected by exposure to algal toxins. Pet owners are advised to prevent their animals from drinking or swimming in the water. If a pet does come into contact with the water, it should be washed with clean water, and owners are advised not to let the animal lick algae off its fur. Any signs of blue-green algae poisoning in pets, such as loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained sickness within a day of contact with water, should prompt a call to a veterinarian.
All recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking, should be avoided, and it is advised against ingesting water or consuming fish from the affected ponds.
The advisory issued by RIDOH and DEM will remain in effect until further notice.