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FDOH in Martin County Advises Residents & Visitors to Avoid Contact with Algae

By Renay Rouse

April 02, 2021

The Florida Department of Health in Martin County (DOH-Martin) is issuing a health advisory for the vicinity of the St Lucie Lock and Phipps Park based on water sampling results from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). DEP conducted sampling in the area of the C44 S80 St Lucie Lock and found the presence of Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, with a low Microcystin toxin level. DOH recommends that residents and visitors avoid contact with algae.

To learn more about sample results and report an algal bloom, visit:
https://floridadep.gov/dear/algal-bloom/content/algal-bloom-sampling-results

Exposure to blue-green algae may cause gastrointestinal effects if swallowed and irritation or rash if touched or inhaled. Swimming in water with blue green algae blooms may cause ear, eye and skin reactions, hay fever symptoms and diarrhea. Children and pets are particularly vulnerable, so keeping them away from the water during a bloom is especially important.

Resources:
If you experience acute illness related to an algal bloom:
Contact the Florida Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222

To report algae blooms:
Contact the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at 855-305-3903

Fish Kill Hotline:
Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 800-636-0511