Beware: Blue-Green Algae Detected in Lake Okeechobee, Warns Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County

Palm Beach County, Florida, is facing a blue-green algae bloom at Lake Okeechobee. The Florida Department of Health recently reported findings of this bacteria at Pelican Bay 3. Water testing is now underway.

Blue-green algae can produce harmful toxins, so caution is essential—even if toxins haven’t been confirmed yet. It’s important to stay informed and protected.

Here are some important precautions for residents and visitors:

• Avoid drinking, swimming, or using watercraft where you see blue-green algae blooms.
• If you touch the algae or notice discolored water with a foul smell, wash your skin and clothes with soap and water.
• Keep pets and livestock away to prevent contamination. Provide them with alternate water sources during this period.
• Don’t use contaminated water for cooking or washing dishes. Boiling won’t remove toxins.
• You can safely eat fish caught in these waters, but rinse the fillets, discard the guts, and cook them thoroughly.
• Do not eat shellfish from affected waters.

Blue-green algae blooms are becoming more common due to factors like rising temperatures and nutrient pollution. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the number of blooms has increased significantly over the past decade, which is a growing concern for public health and the environment.

For further details on the health risks related to algae blooms, visit the Florida Department of Health’s page on harmful algae blooms here.

If you have questions about blue-green algae and its impact on health, contact the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County at 561-671-4014.

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