Okaloosa Health Department cautions about blue-green algae at Twin Lake and Kell-Aire Lake in Destin

The Okaloosa Health Department issued a public caution Tuesday about the presence of blue-green algae in Twin Lake-South Lobe and Kell-Aire Lake in Destin. Water sample testing is underway following the discovery on Aug. 13.

• Blue-green algae has the potential to produce toxins, and health officials warn that environmental conditions can change at any time. The department advises exercising caution even if the presence of toxins has not yet been confirmed.

Residents and visitors are advised not to drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom. Anyone who has contact with algae or discolored or unpleasant-smelling water should wash their skin and clothing with soap and water.

Pet and livestock owners should keep their animals away from the area to avoid any contact with water. Waters where algae blooms are present are not safe for animals, and pets and livestock should use an alternative source of water when algae blooms are present.

• The health department also warns against cooking or cleaning dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms, noting that boiling the water will not eliminate toxins.

However, eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe, according to the DOH. Fish fillets should be rinsed with tap or bottled water, guts should be thrown out, and fish should be cooked thoroughly. Shellfish in waters with algae blooms should not be eaten.

Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria common in Florida’s freshwater environments. A bloom occurs when rapid growth of algae leads to an accumulation of individual cells that discolor water and often produce floating mats that emit unpleasant odors. Blooms can also appear as scum, foam or paint on the surface of the water in various colors.

Environmental factors that contribute to blooms include sunny days, warm water temperatures, still water conditions and excess nutrients. Blooms can appear year-round but are more frequent in summer and fall. Many types of blue-green algae can produce toxins harmful to humans, pets and ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals. The algae may not always be visible as a bloom but can still be present in the water, according to the Okaloosa-DOH.

• Sensitive individuals, including children, the elderly and those who are immunocompromised, may be at risk even at low concentrations and should avoid any exposure, said the health department.

Algae blooms can be reported to DEP online or by calling toll-free at 1-855-305-3903. Symptoms from exposure to a harmful algae bloom or any aquatic toxin should be reported to the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.

For other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae, contact the Okaloosa Health Department at 850-833-9247.