Blue-Green Algae Bloom Found In Newport's Almy Pond

NEWPORT, RI — Rhode Islanders are encouraged to avoid contact with Almy Pond in Newport, the Rhode Island Department of Health said Thursday night. A toxic blue-green algae bloom was found in the water.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that are harmful to both people and pets.

All contact with the water should be avoided, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking. Water should not be ingested by drinking or eating fish from the water, and pets should be kept away, as well.

Skin contact with contaminated water can cause skin, nose, eyes or throat irritation. Ingesting the water can cause stomachache, vomiting or nausea. More rare, serious health issues can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage or nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at most risk of becoming seriously ill from contact with toxins in the water.

Anyone who comes in contact with contaminated water should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible and bathe once at home. Pets should be kept from licking algae off their fur, and cleaned as soon as possible. Watch for signs of poisoning, 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, the Department of Health said.

Blue-green algae toxins can still be in the water, even after the bloom is no longer visible. The advisory will remain in place until further notice.