12/08/2019
Algae... Worth watching out for.
It's been a warm summer and this is a real concern so be careful out there!!
Cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) are microscopic bacteria found in freshwater lakes, streams, ponds and brackish water ecosystems. They can produce toxins (such as microcystins and anatoxins) that affect people, livestock and pets that swim in and drink from the algae-contaminated water. Blue-green algae grow and colonize to form “blooms” that give the water a blue-green appearance or a “pea soup” like color. It also looks like blue or green paint on the surface of the water. Because the algae float, they may be blown by the wind into thick, concentrated mats near the shore, thus making them easily accessible to livestock, pets and people. Algal concentrations vary throughout the year, but are most abundant during periods of hot weather in mid- to late-summer months and are most likely to be found in nutrient-rich water. While most blue-green algae blooms do not produce toxins, it is not possible to determine the presence of toxins without testing. Thus, all blooms should be considered potentially toxic. Very small exposures, such a few mouthfuls of algae-contaminated water, may result in fatal poisoning.
Signs can of poisoning are dependent on the toxin involved but usually become dramatic quickly. these include;
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Blood in stool or black, tarry stool
Pale mucous membranes
Jaundice or gums/skin start to turn yello
Seizures
Disorientation
Coma
Shock
Excessive secretions (e.g., salivation, lacrimation, etc.)
Neurologic signs (including muscle tremors, muscle rigidity, paralysis, etc.)
Blue discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes
Difficulty breathing
Immediate veterinary care is imperative.
Share with your friends to remind them as there is no antidote for this type of algae poisoning.
