Posted: 07.15.2011

State health officials are reminding families and pet owners to keep an eye out for blue-green algae in favorite swimming and wading spots.

They warn the algae can produce toxins that can make people sick and have killed both domestic animals and livestock. The algae can form a thick, stinky scum on the water's surface that can look like paint or pea soup. The algae's color can vary from green to fluorescent blue to brown.

People exposed to blue-green algae typically experience eye, throat, nose or skin irritation as well as stomach problems and diarrhea. Symptoms usually appear a few hours after contact but can come on days later, too.

People should wash off with clean water whenever they swim or play in any lake or river.

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