ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – The first harmful algal blooms of the summer have been spotted on Cayuga Lake.
Tompkins County Whole Health says the toxic blue-green algae was recently seen in the northern section of the lake. Health officials are reminding the public that the cloudy blooms, caused by hot weather and nutrients in water runoff, can cause serious illness in humans and even death in pets.
You should avoid contact with any water if it appears discolored, cloudy, or has an unpleasant odor, and rinse yourself thoroughly if exposed. Should you develop any symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, skin, eye, or throat irritation, allergic reactions or breathing difficulty, get medical attentional immediately.
Do not allow your dogs to swim in areas where you suspect a bloom could be. Rinse and dry dogs thoroughly after they’ve been in the lake and contact a vet immediately if you suspect your dog has been exposed.
You can view examples of harmful algal blooms here and track recently reported blooms here. Watch this video for help on identifying harmful algal blooms. If you spot a suspected harmful algal bloom, report it.
