Keep Your Kids And Pets Away From The Toxic Blue-Green Algae That's Been Spotted In Virginia
By Beth|Published August 16, 2019
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
You may have heard of recent reports of pets in North Carolina and Texas dying from exposure to harmful algae. Unfortunately, this very algae has also been spotted in locations in Virginia, specifically, Orange County, Louisa County, and Spotsylvania. The harmful algae bloom, known as cyanobacteria, thrives in warmer conditions which is why advisories tend to be issued during the summer months. The algae can be spotted due to its blue-green hue and should be avoided at all costs, especially if you’re with pets or small children. Here’s more on how to spot the toxic algae.
As of August 7th, 2019, the Virginia Department of Health has reported that the level of cyanobacteria in certain bodies of water in Virginia is considered to be harmful and should be avoided entirely.
The areas under advisory are the Upper and Middle Pamunkey River Branches and the Upper and Middle North Anna Branches of Lake Anna. These areas in particular have developed a harmful algae bloom.
Encounters with toxic algae are likely to cause symptoms such as skin irritations, rashes, and even gastrointestinal illnesses. These symptoms can be even more drastic in small children and animals.
While there are certain areas in Virginia that are under advisory, the Department of Health urges everyone to take note of stagnant bodies of water before swimming in them. If you notice discolored water or scum that has a bluish tint, it’s best to play it safe and stay out.
Should you, your child, or pet accidentally come into contact with the algae, it’s important to wash off the algae with fresh, clean water as soon as possible.
Note that fish can also be affected, so before cooking any fish filets that might have been sourced from a compromised water source, be sure to clean the filet appropriately and cook at high temperature.
