The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) have issued a warning for the public to avoid contact with Worden Pond in South Kingstown due to harmful algae blooms (HABs). These blooms are caused by blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, which can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. The RIDOH State Health Laboratory detected these toxins and/or high cell counts from water samples collected by DEM.
Residents are advised to exercise caution throughout Worden Pond as HABs can shift locations within ponds and lakes. Recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking should be avoided. Drinking untreated water or consuming fish from affected areas is discouraged. Pet owners are also advised against allowing their pets to drink or swim in this water. This advisory will remain active until further notice.
Contact with water containing blue-green algae may lead to skin irritation, as well as irritation of the nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms could include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets face a higher risk of health effects due to HABs because they are more likely to ingest water when near bodies of water. Individuals who experience symptoms after contact should consult their healthcare provider.
If contact with an algal bloom occurs:
– Rinse skin immediately with clean water.
– Shower and wash clothes upon returning home.
– Wash exposed pets with clean water immediately; prevent them from licking algae off their fur.
– Contact a veterinarian if pets show signs of illness such as fatigue, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within 24 hours.
– Seek medical attention if feeling unwell after exposure.
Other potential HABs may affect additional waterbodies in Rhode Island. Affected waters might appear bright to dark green with thick algae on the surface resembling green paint or pea soup. People and pets should avoid such waters.
Suspected blue-green algae blooms can be reported by contacting DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or via email at DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov. Photographs of suspected blooms are encouraged for reporting purposes. For more information on current advisories and data visit: www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen
