Health officials warn of potential toxic algae in Panama City lake, advise caution

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Health officials warn of potential toxic algae in Panama City lake, advise caution

PANAMA CITY— The Florida Department of Health in Bay County is

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in a local lake.

The blue-green algae could be toxic, and is said to be in Lake Martin, adjacent to the old paper mill turned chemical plant in Millville. Fishermen can often be seen here along Cherry Street or U.S. Business 98.

FDOH Bay cautions that there is a blue-green algae present in the lake that could produce toxins. The health agency is actively testing water samples. It says people need to be wary even if the presence of toxins has yet to be confirmed.

The agency says residents should not drink, swim, wade, boat or come into contact with the water when there is a visible bloom. The health agency also says anyone who has made contact with algae or discolored water that smells unpleasant.

The water is also unsafe for pets and livestock. Boiling the water will not remove the toxins.

The health agency says a thoroughly cooked fish from the water is safe to eat; however, shellfish should be avoided.

FDOH Bay says the algae is composed of bacteria that’s common in Florida’s freshwater bodies, however become a problem when they bloom. The blooms discolor water and emit unpleasant odors. It can also appear as a *****, foam, or paint on the surface of the water.

Warm temperatures and excess nutrients in the water can contribute to bloom conditions.

The release from FDOH Bay says those having symptoms from harmful algae exposure should call the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.

Symptoms of exposure have a wide range, according to the

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. The agency says being in contact with the water or breathing in contaminated water droplets can cause rashes, eye and nose irritation, sore throat and coughing.

The CDC says that swallowing water, fish or shellfish contaminated by toxins produced by the algae can have severe consequences. Symptoms for swallowing the contaminate include: stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle weakness, dizziness, and possible liver damage.

Animals are also significantly impacted by the toxins.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald:

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