Officials Warn Of Blue-Green Algae Bloom At Smithfield Pond

SMITHFIELD, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are advising residents to avoid contact with Georgiaville Pond in Smithfield due to a blue-green algae bloom.

Blue-green algae, Aldo known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Contact with water containing this algae can cause skin irritation, stomach aches, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Rarer symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are particularly at risk of becoming ill.

Health officials say all recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, should be avoided until further notice. No one should ingest water or eat fish from Georgiaville Pond and pets should not be allowed in the water.

Anyone who comes into contact with the water should rinse their skin with clean water as soon as possible. Pets who are showing symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.

To report suspected blue-green algae blooms in other bodies of water, contact DEM's Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov.