Toxic blue-green algae found in Watson Reservoir (Little Compton)

Posted 10/12/18

Add Watson Reservoir in Little Compton to the list of waterways to avoid because of blue-green algae (or cyanobacteria) blooms. Blue-green algae can produce toxins that can harm humans and animals, …

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Toxic blue-green algae found in Watson Reservoir (Little Compton)

Posted

Add Watson Reservoir in Little Compton to the list of waterways to avoid because of blue-green algae (or cyanobacteria) blooms. Blue-green algae can produce toxins that can harm humans and animals, say the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM).

While Watson Reservoir is a drinking water sources maintained by Newport Water, it is not currently being used to deliver drinking water to customers.

People should avoid recreation and not ingest untreated water or eat fish from these waters. Since pets can be affected by exposure to algal toxins, owners should not allow pets to drink from or swim in these waters. This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

Contact with untreated water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and/or throat. If water containing algal toxins is ingested, health effects can include stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Young children and pets are at greater risk than adults, due to their size and because they are more likely to drink contaminated water. Other health effects, which are rarer, include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. People who have been swimming in, or have otherwise been in contact with the affected waters who experience symptoms should contact their healthcare providers.

Anyone who comes into contact with waters with blue-green algae should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible, bathe, and wash their clothes. If a pet comes in contact with this water, the pet should be washed with clean water. Do not let the animal lick algae off of its fur. Call a veterinarian if the pet shows any symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning, which include loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness that occurs within a few days of contact with the water.

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