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🚨 ALERT: Harmful Blue-Green Algae Found in Caloosahatchee River – What You Need to Know

A Silent Threat Beneath the Surface

A warning has been issued about dangerous blue-green algae spreading through a stretch of the Caloosahatchee River near the Sebastian Canal. Normally harmless bacteria in Florida’s freshwater have rapidly multiplied, forming toxic blooms that pose serious risks to people and animals.

These blooms often appear as:

• Thick green paint-like scum
• Floating foam or slime
• A foul, musty odor

While warm weather accelerates their growth, algae outbreaks can strike at any time of year.

Health Risks: Who’s Most Vulnerable?

The toxins produced by these algae can cause severe reactions if: ✔ Ingested (swallowing contaminated water) ✔ Touched (skin contact with blooms) ✔ Inhaled (breathing in mist or spray)

High-Risk Groups:

⚠ Children – More likely to swallow water while swimming ⚠ Seniors – Weaker immune systems ⚠ Immunocompromised individuals – Higher sensitivity ⚠ Pets & livestock – Risk of poisoning if they drink or swim in contaminated water

Even invisible bacteria can linger in the water, making caution essential.

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Safety Measures: How to Protect Yourself

❌ Avoid These Activities:

• Swimming, boating, or fishing in visible algae hotspots
• Drinking, bathing, or cooking with affected water
• Using contaminated water for pets or irrigation
• Consuming shellfish from the area (shellfish must not be eaten even if cooked)

✅ What You Can Do:

✔ Rinse immediately – If skin or clothes touch algae, wash with soap and water ✔ Properly clean & cook fish – If caught in the area, ensure thorough cleaning and cooking ✔ Use bottled or filtered water – For drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth ✔ Boil water? No. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling.

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Report & Stay Informed

📍 If You See Algae:

Florida tracks outbreaks—report sightings to: 🔹 Online: Florida DEP Algae Bloom Reporting 🔹 Phone: Call the Department of Environmental Protection

🩺 If Exposed or Sick:

❗ Health concerns? Contact the Florida Poison Center for guidance 📞 Questions? Reach out to your local health department

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Final Advice: Stay Alert, Stay Safe

Blue-green algae isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a health hazard. By staying informed, avoiding contaminated areas, and reporting outbreaks, we can help protect ourselves, our families, and our pets.

When in doubt, keep out.