Stay Safe While Recreating in Virginia Waterways
Summer is a great time to enjoy the beautiful waters of Virginia. But swimming or other activities in any natural body of water can pose some health risks. Natural water is not disinfected.
Algae blooms are rapid growths of algae that can occur naturally in Virginia’s waterways. Algae are always around in water. Stormwater or fertilizer adds extra nutrients. When the sun shines, the algae boom!
Blooms are more common from June to September. Not all blooms are harmful. Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB) occur when algae produce toxins. In fresh waters, these blue-green algae are known as cyanobacteria.
These toxins can adversely affect human health. These toxins can damage the kidneys, liver, nervous system, and brain. If ingested, these toxins can cause severe illness or death in humans or animals in extreme cases.
Harmful Algal Blooms can turn our beautiful waters toxic. Protect yourself with these tips:
- Check HAB Surveillance Map for active HAB advisories.
- Avoid discolored, smelly, or algae present water.
- Shower or bathe after swimming to wash off possible germs and contaminants.
- Never swallow untreated water and don’t swim if your skin has cuts or open wounds.
- Wash hands often, including after swimming and before preparing and eating food.
- Keep pets away from contaminated water.
- Avoid swimming in natural waterways for three days following rain events.
- When in doubt, get out!
If you come across algae present in the water or discolored, smelly water, please report it. Submit your observations of algae or a fish kill using the VDH HAB online report form. The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force can conduct surveillance of the area.
Stay in the know before you go; visit SwimHealthyVA.com.