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 A algae that fouled Spy Pond last September has shown up a little earlier this summer. Christine Connelly Sharkey, the town's health director, said high levels of microcystis algae detected at Spy Pond during water sampling performed by volunteers from the Mystic River Watershed Association continue to foul the Arlington water spot.
This particular type of algae can be toxic if ingested in high doses and can cause skin irritation and a rash after wading or swimming, she said in a news release issued Aug. 13. She told YourArlington on Aug. 25 that the advisory continues.
Sept. 5, 2007: High level of toxic algae found at Spy Pond
"Because the algae was detected in mid-August, we can assume that the risk will still be present until at least mid September. Swimming is not permitted in Spy Pond, so this advisory is simply another reminder.
"Pets, specifically dogs are at greatest risk, when they walk along the shore and if they eat the green algae that washes ashore."
The Arlington Board of Health strongly advises residents not to swim or stand in the water and especially urges residents to keep pets away from the water.
Microcystis is a cyanobacteria algae that grows naturally beneath or on the surface of many waterbodies. Under certain conditions (such as warm weather and an abundance of nutrients in the water) the algae may undergo an explosive type of growth that results in dense, floating mats of algae. This is commonly referred to as an “algae bloom.”
Contact with high levels of the cyanobacteria algae has been found to contribute to eye, ear, and skin irritation. Microcystis is different from most other types of algae because it contains and can secrete a toxin into the water. During an algae bloom, the amount of algae and toxin in the water can become elevated and exposure can be potentially harmful to people and animals.
Health concerns vary depending on the concentrations of microcystis and its toxin, microcystin. Ingestion of elevated concentrations of the algae and its toxin can lead to more serious health effects (e.g. muscle cramps, twitching, and liver damage)
Since algae benefit from warm, sunny weather, as the days get shorter and cooler, the algae are likely to dissipate. Any toxins that are in the water will decline over time as the algae die off. In addition, any rainfall will help to circulate the water and break up the bloom.
Microcystis Algae Bloom: F.A.Q. concerning health impacts
What is microcystis?
Microcystis is a cyanobacteria algae that grows naturally beneath or on the surface of many waterbodies. Under certain conditions (such as warm weather and an abundance of nutrients in the water) the algae may undergo an explosive type of growth that results in dense, floating mats of algae. This is commonly referred to as an “algae bloom.”
Can exposure to microcystis cause health problems?
Yes. Contact with high levels of the cyanobacteria algae has been found to contribute to eye, ear, and skin irritation. Microcystis is different from most other types of algae because it contains and can secrete a toxin into the water. During an algae bloom, the amount of algae and toxin in the water can become elevated and exposure can be potentially harmful to people and animals.
What types of health concerns are associated with exposure to toxins from microcystis?
Health concerns vary depending on the concentrations of microcystis and its toxin, microcystin. Ingestion of elevated concentrations of the algae and its toxin can lead to more serious health effects (e.g. muscle cramps, twitching, and liver damage)
How can I reduce my risk of health problems associated with exposure to microcystis?
Do not come into contact with water near the algae bloom. This also applies to pets.
Does the Department of Public Health have guidance on what levels of the algae or the toxin may be harmful?
The Department has drafted guidance that recommends that individuals be advised not to contact the water if the number of cells exceed 70,000 cells per milliliter of water and/or the toxin level in the algae and water exceeds 14 parts per billion.
How long is a bloom expected to last?
Since algae benefit from warm, sunny weather, as the days get shorter and cooler, the algae are likely to dissipate. Any toxins that are in the water will decline over time as the algae die off. In addition, any rainfall will help to circulate the water and break-up the bloom.
If I have had contact with this water or the algae bloom, what should I do?
For questions related to health concerns, contact your health care provider, local board of health, or the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau for Environmental Health at (617) 624-5757.
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