Public Health Advisory made for algae bloom in ponds

The Wareham Board of Health is advising residents to stay away from Glen Charlie and Mill Pond due to the presence of an algae bloom.

Cyanobacteria, the blue-green algae found in the pond, can produce toxins that can make pets and people sick. The pond has been closed until further notice.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health and Wareham Board of Health advise the public to avoid skin contact with the water, do not swim or drink the water and to wash off immediately if contact is made with the water.

The current bloom appears as a bright green floating scum along some areas of the pond edge.

According to the CDC, human contact with the algae can cause stomach pain, rashes, headache, coughing, watery eyes, nose irritation and sore throats. Severe issues could include liver damage, seizures and an irregular heartbeat.

For humans, the primary concern is ingestion of water containing blue-green algae while swimming. Of secondary concern is direct skin contact with the blue-green algae and inhalation of water droplets containing blue-green algae or toxins. 

For pets, the primary concern is the ingestion of water containing blue-green algae or scum that has washed ashore or gotten onto their skin or fur.

The Board of Health advises pet parents to contact a veterinarian immediately if their pet has been around an algae bloom and shows symptoms such as vomiting, staggering, drooling, or convulsions. These symptoms present themselves fairly quickly after exposure.