Toxic Blue-Green Algae Found In 3 Cape Cod Ponds

FALMOUTH, MA — The Association to Preserve Cape Cod advised residents to avoid three Cape Cod ponds after detecting toxic blue-green algae.

The organization said it found the algae blooms in Walkers Pond and Lower Mill Pond in Brewester and Fresh Pond in Falmouth.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can cause skin irritation or illness in both people and animals if touched or ingested, especially in pets and children. The blooms can be deadly for pets. Anyone who comes in contact with contaminated water should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible and take a shower and wash their clothes once at home.

If a pet gets the water on them, clean them as soon as possible and do not allow them to lick the algae off their fur. Monitor for any signs of poisoning, which can include including loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness that occurs within a day or so after being in contact with water.

Even after the algae is no longer visible in the water, the toxins can still be present.

The Association to Preserve Cape Cod said it's continuing to work with towns and volunteers to monitor blue-green algae blooms locally. The organization created an interactive map to help residents monitor the blooms.