Blue Green Algae Health Risks

Some blue green algae can.

Blue green algae health risks.

Blue green algae blooms appeared earlier and on more lakes this summer than usual. The most frequent and serious health. They usually multiply and bloom when the water is warm stagnant and rich in nutrients phosphorus and nitrogen from sources such as fertilizer runoff or septic tank overflows. Photo gallery of blue green algae blooms.

People consider spirulina a superfood due to its excellent nutritional content and health benefits. Cyanobacteria or blue green algae occur worldwide especially in calm nutrient rich waters. Health effects water affected by blue green algae may not be suitable for drinking recreation or agricultural use. People may be exposed to cyanobacterial toxins by drinking or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about these blooms and the health risks they can pose. If you have contact e g swimming boating with water containing blue green algae it can cause. Children might be more at risk for getting sick from blue green algae because they often spend more time in the water and may swallow contaminated water by accident. People and animals should avoid blooms because blue green algae can cause health effects.

Assessing potential health risks from microcystin toxins in blue green algae dietary supplements. Wisconsin dnr habs division of water bureau of water quality. Algal blooms can be toxic. Harmful blue green algae blooms.

Contact information for information on lakes in wisconsin contact. Blue green algae and health brochure is available in portable document format pdf 533kb 2 pp view and order hab publications. Contact with affected water can cause skin irritation mild respiratory effects and hayfever like symptoms. Harmful algal blooms are a major environmental problem in all 50 states.

Some species of cyanobacteria produce toxins that affect animals and humans. What are the potential health effects of blue green algae and blue green algal toxins. Cyanobacteria also referred to as blue green algae are microscopic organisms that live primarily in fresh water and salt water at the surface and below. Some species of blue green algae produce harmful toxins which take effect when eaten inhaled or skin contact is made.

Spirulina is a type of blue green algae that people can take as a dietary supplement. How does blue green algae affect human health. Skin irritation and rash. Environ health perspect 2000 108 435 9.

Gilroy dj kauffman kw hall ra et al. Keep people and pets away from water that is green scummy or smells bad.