HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County has issued a health alert for Lake Thonotosassa after a water sample taken on September 10th confirmed the presence of harmful blue-green algae toxins.
Residents and visitors are strongly advised to exercise caution in and around the lake.
Read: Florida Gulf Coast Fishing Report – September 13, 2024
Precautions to take:
- Avoid contact: Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts, or touch the water where there’s a visible bloom.
- Wash thoroughly: If you come into contact with the algae or discolored/smelly water, wash your skin and clothes with soap and water.
- Protect pets and livestock: Keep them away from the water, as it is unsafe for animals. Provide them with an alternative water source.
- Don’t use the water for cooking or cleaning: Boiling will not remove the toxins.
- Fish consumption: It is safe to eat fillets from healthy fish caught in the lake, but rinse them with tap water, discard the guts, and cook thoroughly.
- Avoid shellfish: Do not consume shellfish from the lake.
What are Blue-Green Algae?
Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria common in Florida’s freshwater. Blooms occur when algae grow rapidly, discoloring the water and sometimes forming floating mats with unpleasant odors. Some blue-green algae produce toxins that can harm humans and animals.
For more information:
- Visit the Protecting Florida Together website or the DEP’s Algal Bloom Dashboard to view toxin results.
- Contact the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County at (813) 307-8000 if you have any health concerns related to blue-green algae.
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