Health officials advise public to stay out of Coventry lake due to blue-green algae

COVENTRY, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island health officials announced an advisory on Tuesday to avoid contact with Tiogue Lake in Coventry due to blue-green algae blooms.

The state Department of Health and Environmental Management advises against all recreational activities including swimming, boating, and fishing for the time being.

The potentially hazardous blooms may affect surrounding lakes and ponds in the state.

Officials said blue-green algae can produce toxins that can make people and pets sick, from minor symptoms like skin irritation to stomach issues and nausea. In rarer cases, exposure to the toxins have caused people to experience dizziness, fever, and liver and nervous system damage.

In pets, symptoms include any sudden sickness and loss of energy and appetite. Young children and pets are more likely to experience health effects.

Anyone who gets exposed to blue-green algae should immediately shower and wash their pets if they were also exposed.

Those who experience symptoms after coming in contact with it should contact their healthcare provider.