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

By Renay Rouse

April 16, 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 Port Mayaca Lock based on water sampling results from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). DEP conducted sampling in the S308 canal and found the presence of Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae. DOH recommends that residents and visitors avoid contact with algae.

In addition, an advisory remains in place for the vicinity of the St Lucie Lock and Phipps Park in
Stuart.

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