Increasing Toxic Algae Blooms in U.S. Can Make People Sick, Report Warns

The latest report showed that toxic algae blooms can make people sick. In previous reports, toxic algae can become harmful to animals.

It is best that humans stay away from toxic algae blooms because they can likely cause animal and human illness.

In recent news, Nature World News (NWN) reported that toxic algae killed a dog in the United Kingdom after the animal consumed the algae.

The cyanobacteria developed as algal blooms could be seen around ponds, shores and other dies of water.

Many Americans are expected to enjoy beach time as the summer season begins and record-breaking heat unfolds. Beachgoers should be more careful if there are algal blooms.

In the previous reports, NBC Los Angeles reported that sea lions and dolphins have also died on the Southern California coast from deadly toxic algae blooms.

Some of the sea lions became sick due to harmful toxins from algae.

As a result, a resting zone was provided to help sick animals to recover from exposure to algae blooms.

Harmful to humans

According to CBC News and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the increasing concerns that harmful algae bloom (HAB) on the U.S. coasts can result in health risks.

The National Institute of Environment Health Science explained that algae blooms could become harmful due to toxic toxins. HAB is considered a public health concern.

When the toxins are released into water, the report noted that it can affect humans and aquatic animals. A serious health impact can happen if it becomes left untreated.

According to the CDC report in 2021, algae blooms emerged in 16 states in the country. There were 368 blooms recorded.

CBS News reported that Washington recorded the most animal illnesses associated with algae blooms. There are at least 2,715 illnesses reported in 2021.

Animal illnesses related to HAB are likely to occur in August. Animals are said to experience dark urine, vomiting and possible lethargy.

Meanwhile, the CDC 2021 data provided that 117 human illnesses were reported due to toxic algal blooms.

In terms of the occurrence, the report highlighted that harmful algae blooms emerged during the summer months, especially in August.

Human illnesses emerged in June, adding that some of the reported symptoms are the following:

• Fever
• Headache
• Gastrointestinal
• Dermatologic

Staying safe from harmful algae blooms

Due to public health concerns about HAB, here are essential reminders to keep safe and your pets from HAB illnesses.

The CDC provided helpful tips for communities to stay away from HAB because of the potential dangers. The advisory added that people should keep updated with advisories before swimming and fishing.

The advisory further noted that people should avoid waters with signs of algae blooms. The report highlighted some notable signs: dead fish near the area, algal mats, discolored water and a stinky smell.

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