Monroe Review

The Monroe County Health Department (MCHD) received preliminary positive results from testing of a suspected blue-green algae bloom, also known as cyanobacteria, or harmful algal blooms (HABs), in Lake Erie at Sterling State Park and Luna Pier Beach. Similar conditions are present along most of the Lake Erie shoreline in Monroe County. MCHD is recommending visitors and residents of the lake avoid water-related activities and keep pets from drinking or going in the lake water in the area where the bloom is visible until sampling for testing is complete or the bloom breaks up. Additional sampling will continue to occur to verify the presence of the bloom. Advisory signs have been posted around the lake. Summer is the peak season for the formation of HABs that can present health hazards to people and pets. In Michigan, algal blooms typically occur during periods of warm temperatures, lots of sun, and high nutrient levels. It is not possible to determine whether algal blooms contain harmful toxins by looking at them, so it is best to avoid contact with any body of water that is covered with algal mats or significant rafts of algae on the surface. You can search advisories or closings for bodies of water throughout Michigan online or contact EGLE at 800-662-9278 for more information about HABs and the environment. Actions to take in the Areas where the Bloom is Visible:  Avoid areas with scummy water in the lake or with water that looks like spilled paint or pea soup, floating scums, or has a green sheen to it. These may contain flecks, mats, foam, sheens, streaks, or clumps.  Avoid water-related activities in areas where the bloom is visible. Individuals that have skin contact, swallow large amounts, or play in the water are susceptible to illness.  Keep pets from drinking or playing in the lake water. Symptoms of illness often appear quicker in animals than in humans – sometimes in minutes to a few hours. Symptoms in animals can include vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, staggered walking, excessive salivation, convulsions, erratic behavior, physical distress, and death.  Do not boat or ski in water with HABs (may create water spray in the air).  Use caution if eating fish and mussels from impacted bodies of water.  Do not water lawns or gardens with water from impacted bodies of water because it may create a water spray in the air.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Chris Westover, REHS

Environmental Health Director

734-240-7921

MONROE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

If you or your pet(s) have been exposed to HABs:  Shower yourself and pet(s) immediately  Contact your medical provider or veterinarian if you or your pet have ingested or been exposed to HABs  Contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222 or call your medical provider if you have been exposed to or swallowed water with HABs and have symptoms Report suspicious-looking algae to EGLE by calling the Environmental Assistance Center at 800-662-9278 or by emailing AlgaeBloom@michigan.gov. For more information on HABs and your health, contact MDHHS at 800-648-6942. For information about HABs and pets or livestock call the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) at 800-292-3939. You may also contact the MCHD at 734-240-7900 for more information and updates. MCHD will provide additional updates as we learn more information.

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