Concerns were raised by health officials on Monday as harmful blue-green algae toxins were identified in the St. Johns River, prompting the Florida Department of Health in Duval County to issue a health alert. A sample taken from the river on September 23 led to the discovery of the toxins, as reported by First Coast News.
Officials are urging residents to be cautious near Mandarin Point and to avoid contact with the river water. People should not drink, swim, wade, or use personal watercraft in affected areas. Reports from News4Jax emphasize the need to keep pets and livestock away from the water. This warning comes after incidents where blue-green algae have bloomed, leading to discolored water that can be harmful to both humans and animals.
Blue-green algae, a type of bacteria commonly found in Florida's freshwater, can produce bad odors and create unsightly foam or scum on the water's surface. These outbreaks are often worsened by warm water and too much sunlight. According to Action News Jax, anyone who comes into contact with algae should wash their skin and clothing with soap and water.
The health alert warns against cooking or washing dishes with contaminated water, as boiling doesn’t remove the toxins. Residents should avoid eating shellfish from these waters and should prepare fish caught in the river by cooking it thoroughly and discarding the guts. For updates on water quality, check online resources like Protecting Florida Together or the Department of Environmental Protection's Algal Bloom Dashboard.
