RIDOH recommends public avoid two bodies of water

NORTH PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said the public should avoid contact with a section of Wenscott Reservoir in North Providence as well as the swimming area at George Washington Campground in Chepachet.

RIDOH said that the area of Wenscott Reservoir contained a harmful algae bloom cause by blue-green algae, while the swimming area at the campground had high levels of bacteria.

RIDOH said that skin contact with blue-green algae can irritate the skin, nose, eyes, and throat, while ingesting the algae can cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea, as well as dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage.

Animals suffering from blue-green algae poisoning can suffer symptoms including loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness.

Any person or pet who comes in contact with the contaminated water should wash off their skin with clean water as soon as possible, and then bathe and wash their clothes.

If a person or pet is experiencing symptoms a healthcare provider should be contacted.

More information on blue-green algae can be found here.

RIDOH said it monitors bacteria counts in bodies of water through Labor Day.

Up-to-date statuses of swimming areas can be heard in a pre-recorded message by calling 401-222-2751.

A list of closed beaches can be found here.