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Tampa Free Press TFP
Florida DOH-Polk County Issues Alert For Lake Van Alert: Harmful Algae Bloom Detected
By Liz Shultz - Local BN,
20 days ago
Residents and visitors near Lake Van (end of Lake Van Road) are advised to avoid contact with the water due to the presence of harmful blue-green algae toxins. This health alert is based on a water sample collected on June 26, 2024.
Here’s what you should do:
Stay out of the water: Don’t swim, wade, boat, or use jet skis in the affected area.
Wash thoroughly: If you accidentally touch the water, wash your skin and clothes with soap and water as soon as possible.
Protect your pets: Keep pets away from the water. Find alternative water sources for them.
Don’t use contaminated water: Avoid using lake water for cooking, cleaning, or drinking. Boiling won’t eliminate toxins.
Fish with caution: If you fish, only eat fillets from healthy fish. Clean them thoroughly with clean water, discard the guts, and cook well. Don’t eat shellfish from the lake.
It’s a common bacteria found in Florida’s freshwater. Blooms occur when algae grow rapidly, discoloring the water and forming floating mats with unpleasant smells. Blooms can appear as scum, foam, or paint-like surfaces in various colors.
Why is it harmful?
Some blue-green algae produce toxins that can harm people, pets, and aquatic life. Sensitive individuals, like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk.
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