Blue-green algae in Lake Butler: how to react

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County warns the public of the presence of blue-green algae in Lake Butler.

While water sample testing is still occurring, blue-green algae can produce toxins, so since environmental conditions can change at any time, the public should exercise caution, even if the presence of toxins has not yet been confirmed by DOH-Orange.

In Florida's freshwater habitats, blue-green algae are a prevalent bacterial species. Rapid algal development results in a buildup of individual cells that discolor water and frequently create floating mats that smell bad. This is known as a bloom.

On the water's surface, blue-green algal blooms can also show up as paint, scum, or foam in a variety of hues. Warm water temperatures, quiet water conditions, sunny days, and an abundance of nutrients are some of the environmental elements that cause blue-green algae blooms. 

Blooms are more common in the summer and fall, but they can occur at any time of year. A wide variety of blue-green algae are capable of producing poisons. The presence of blue-green algae in the water may not always be apparent as a bloom.

Toxins produced by blue-green algae have the potential to harm ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic life, as well as people and pets. Even at low doses, sensitive people (such as youngsters, the elderly, and those with impaired immune systems) may still be at danger and should not be exposed.

DOH-Orange said the following cautions should be made:

Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts, or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom.

Keep pets or livestock away from contact with water where the algae blooms, since it is not safe for animals. An alternate source of water should be used.

Do not cook or clean dishes with water where the algae blooms, boiling water will not eliminate toxins.

While eating fillets from healthy fish from areas where the algae blooms in safe, fish fillets need to be rinsed, guts thrown out and cooked. Shellfish from the area should not be eaten.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)  collect algae samples from reported bloom locations, including Lake Butler. After samples are analyzed at their laboratory, the toxin results  can be viewed on Protecting Florida Together or on DEP’s Algal Bloom Dashboard.

To check Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications for  harmful algae blooms and beach conditions go to Protecting Florida Together.

Blooms can be reported to DEP online or by calling toll-free at 1-855-305-3903.  

DOH-Orange  wants the public to report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algae bloom or any  aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center by calling 800-222-1222 to speak  to a poison specialist. 

They need to also contact their veterinarian if they believe their pet has become ill after  consuming or having contact with blue-green algae contaminated water. 

All dead, diseased, or abnormally behaving fish or wildlife should be reported to  the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission online or at 800-636-0511. 

Any other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae, please call DOH-Orange  at 407-723-5004.