The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has issued a warning to residents and visitors about the risks associated with toxic blue-green algae, which can be found in many state waters during the summer. The department is encouraging people to take precautions for their own safety, as well as that of their pets and the environment.
Blue-green algae, also called harmful algae blooms (HABs), occur naturally but can become dangerous when warm temperatures and nutrient-rich conditions allow them to grow rapidly. These blooms may produce toxins that pose health risks to humans and can be fatal to animals.
According to the department, “People exposed to toxic algae may develop skin irritation, rashes, digestive system issues, low energy, fever, headache, or sore throat. People who think they may have come in contact with toxic algae should: Shower or rinse with fresh water immediately. Contact a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms.”
Pets are particularly at risk because they are more likely than humans to drink contaminated water. The department notes: “Symptoms can include drooling, diarrhea and vomiting, low energy, loss of appetite, stumbling, and tremors. If your pet is exposed, you should: Get the pet out of the water immediately. Keep the pet from licking their fur or paws until they are rinsed. Rinse the pet with clean, fresh tap water as soon as possible. Thoroughly remove all algae from their fur, skin, and paws. Watch for symptoms, and contact a veterinarian if your pet shows any symptoms or if you suspect they have swallowed toxic algae. For additional support, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.”
The agency urges people to check current conditions before entering bodies of water by contacting local authorities and observing posted signs about potential blooms or scum on the surface. The only reliable way to determine whether an algal bloom is producing toxins is through testing; therefore their advice remains: “When in doubt, stay out.”
Information on recently reported blooms is available via the state’s toxic algae dashboard (https://coepht.colorado.gov/toxic-algae), though officials caution that these conditions can change quickly.
To help reduce future outbreaks of harmful algal blooms throughout Colorado’s waterways year-round, residents are asked not to overuse fertilizers or de-icers containing nitrogen or urea and always dispose of pet waste properly.
Suspected cases of toxic algae can be reported by calling ToxCall at 303-692-2606 or emailing cdphe_toxcall@state.co.us.
For more information on HABs in Colorado waters visit https://coepht.colorado.gov/toxic-algae.
