Multiple US Lakes Under Blue-Green Algae Health Warnings

Multiple regions across the United States have issued warnings and advisories due to harmful blue-green algae blooms in various bodies of water. In Surrey, the Waverley Borough Council has urged people and pets to avoid contact with Frensham Great Pond because the algae can cause skin irritation and other health issues, and no effective removal method currently exists. Kansas authorities, including the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, have maintained algae warnings and advisories for several lakes, such as King Lake, Wooster Lake, Peter Pan Park pond, Melvern Outlet River Pond, and recently added Fossil Lake, emphasizing the risks to humans and animals and recommending public access restrictions. Florida's Seminole County Department of Health issued a health alert for Lake Jesup, advising residents to avoid contact with the water and take precautions with pets, as blue-green algae toxins can be harmful even when cooking or cleaning. Similarly, Polk County Public Health Department cautioned about blue-green algae in Big Butternut Lake, highlighting the potential for serious health effects including liver and respiratory failure in extreme cases, and advising the public to avoid swimming and contact with the water. Across all affected areas, authorities stress vigilance around these water bodies, posting signs, and recommending avoidance of water contact to protect public health and animal safety.