Deadly Algae That Can Kill Dogs Is Back In Illinois Lakes

ILLINOIS — The blue-green algae that is deadly for dogs and toxic to humans is beginning to bloom again throughout Illinois as temperatures rise. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency said current conditions are ideal for the algae, also known as cyanobacteria, to grow.

While this type of algae occurs naturally in lakes, streams and ponds, some bloom growths produce harmful chemicals that can cause sickness or other external damage like hives and rashes.

In 2019, the Illinois Department of Public Health urged pet-owners to keep their dogs away from the shiny algae, as ingestion was causing serious illness and even death in the animals.

The most common type of exposure is through direct skin contact by swimming or ingesting droplets during water sports. More mild symptoms can include rashes, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing and wheezing.

Cyanobacteria was most recently spotted in Lake Catherine and Woods Creek Lake.

When cyanobacteria blooms, officials are supposed to post signs that warn residents about its presence. However, not all blooms are reported to state officials. That's why anyone planning on using an Illinois waterway should avoid water that looks like the following:

• Spilled, green or blue plaint.
• Has surface scum, mats or films on top.
• Has a blue or green crust at the shoreline.
• Is discolored or has blue-green colored streaks.
• Has greenish globs suspended in the water just below the surface.

If you or your pet has contact with a cyanobacteria bloom, veterinarians advise not letting your pet lick their fur until you can rinse them with clean, fresh water.

Activities near lakes or rivers are safe from infection, but people should wash their hands before eating if they've touched any lake water or shoreline rocks and shells.

For additional information about harmful algal blooms, visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Harmful Algal Bloom website.