RIDOH updates algae advisories at multiple bodies of water

NORTH PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Health said it was recommending lifting a ban on recreational activities at Wenscott Reservoir in North Providence and closing Slack Reservoir in Smithfield and the state boat ramp at Tiogue Lake in Coventry due to an algae bloom.

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.