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Martin County D.O.H. Advises Residents & Visitors to Avoid Contact with Algae

By Renay Rouse

April 02, 2021

Contact:
Renay Rouse Renay.Rouse@FLHealth.gov 772-631-6008


Martin County, FL – 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


About the Florida Department of Health
The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote
and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.
Follow us on Twitter at @GoHealthyMartin and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida
Department of Health please visit www.MartinCountyHealth.com
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