PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A blue-green algae bloom was confirmed on Friday at Pontoosuc Lake that may present harmful health effects for users of the lake.

 

The city has issued a health advisory as recommended by the state Department of Public Health for both people and pets. 

 

• Do not swim.

• Do not swallow water.

• Keep animals away.

• Rinse off after contact with water.

 

Warning signs are being posted around the lake.

 

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, occur naturally in lakes and ponds throughout Massachusetts. These microscopic organisms are components of the aquatic food chain. In ordinary circumstances, cyanobacteria cause no apparent harm. However, warmer water temperatures and high nutrient concentrations may induce a rapid increase in their abundance. 

 

This response is commonly called a "bloom" because algal biomass increases to the extent that normally

clear water becomes markedly turbid.

 

Harmful health effects from the bloom can result through skin contact with the algae tainted water, swallowing the water, and when airborne droplets are inhaled. Pets are especially prone to the health effects not only through skin contact, but also by ingesting significant amounts of the toxin by licking their wet fur after leaving the water.