Algae blooms found in Blydenburgh Lake, Big Reed Pond, officials say

Suffolk County health officials advise steering clear of Blydenburgh Lake, Smithtown, and Big Reed Pond, Montauk, after blue-green algae blooms were found there.

Any water looking “scummy or discolored should be avoided,” and pets and children also should be kept away from the area, officials said in a news release on Friday.

Contact with blue-green algae can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; skin, eye or throat irritation; allergic reactions or breathing difficulties, according to the health department, which advised those who have come in contact with the water and experience symptoms to seek medical attention.

If contact does occur, health officials advise rinsing off with clean water.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, is naturally present in low numbers, but can increase, forming green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red blooms, as well as floating scum, according to the release.

More information can be found on the county’s website:

http://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/HealthServices/EnvironmentalQuality/Ecology/MarineWaterQualityMonitoring/HarmfulAlgalBlooms/Cyanobacteria.aspx