The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) is warning residents about a cyanobacteria algae bloom at Sprague Pond in Boston’s Hyde Park/Readville neighborhood.
The Neponset River Watershed Association alerted BPHC to a sighting of cyanobacteria, a blue-green algae, blooming in Sprague Pond.
Sprague Pond is temporarily closed to the public. During the closure, residents must:
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Avoid contact with the water.
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Keep pets away from the water.
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Avoid fishing and other activities in or near the water.
If you, your child or your pet come into contact with the water, rinse immediately.
Blue-green algae can form harmful blooms in lakes, ponds and rivers, making the water cloudy and sometimes looking like pea soup or paint. Blue-green algae blooms can produce toxins that can make people and pets sick.
Toxins may be present in the algae cells or in the water.
“For humans, the primary concern is ingestion of water containing blue-green algae while swimming,” BPHC said in a statement. “Direct skin contact with the blue-green algae and inhaling water droplets containing blue-green algae or toxins are of secondary importance. For dogs, the main concern is ingesting water that contains blue-green algae or scum that has washed ashore or gotten on their skin or coat.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) will continue to monitor the level of cyanobacteria algae in the pond.
Residents who have questions or concerns, or would like more information, can call the Mayor’s Health Line at 617-534-5050.
This is a development story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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