Public health advisory issued for blue-green algae bloom at Pontoosuc Lake

PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The City of Pittsfield has issued a public health advisory for Pontoosuc Lake following the confirmation of a blue-green algae bloom.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has recommended the advisory due to the potential harmful health effects for both people and pets who come into contact with the water.

The advisory warns against swimming, swallowing lake water, or allowing pets near water. Blue-green algae, also known as Cyanobacteria, can pose health risks through direct skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation of airborne droplets. Pets are especially vulnerable as they may ingest toxins by licking their fur after exposure to contaminated water.

City officials have posted warning signs around Pontoosuc Lake, advising residents and visitors to avoid high-risk activities until further notice. These activities include swimming, wading, and any form of water sports such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Additional moderate-risk activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, are also discouraged.

The health risks associated with exposure to blue-green algae range from mild irritations to more severe symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, muscle cramps, and in extreme cases, nerve or liver damage. Symptoms for both humans and pets include skin irritations, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Residents are advised to contact a healthcare provider or veterinarian if any symptoms appear following contact with the water.

The Pittsfield Health Department will monitor conditions at Pontoosuc Lake and will continue to test the water weekly until the bloom has dissipated. The advisory will be lifted only after two consecutive tests show that algae levels have dropped below the state’s safety guidelines.

For more information, residents can contact the Pittsfield Health Department at 413-499-9411.

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