Lee County health officials warn of harmful algae toxins detected in Carousel Lake

LEE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — The Florida Department of Health in Lee County has issued a health alert for harmful blue-green algae toxins in Carousel Lake-South Shore.

The alert follows a water sample taken on July 8, 2026. The public should exercise caution in and around the lake, the department said.

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

Pets and livestock should be kept away from the area. Waters where algae blooms are present are not safe for animals, and pets and livestock should use an alternative source of water.

People should not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate toxins.

Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. People should rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts and cook fish 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.

Blue-green algae blooms can also appear as scum, foam or paint on the surface of the water in various colors. Some environmental factors that contribute to blue-green algae blooms are 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, and blue-green algae may not always be visible as a bloom but can still be present in the water.

Blue-green algae can produce toxins that can be harmful to humans and pets as well as ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals. Sensitive individuals, such as children, the elderly and those who are immunocompromised, may still be at risk even at low concentrations and should avoid any exposure.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and partners collect algae samples from reported bloom locations. After samples are analyzed at their laboratory, toxin results can be viewed on the Protecting Florida Together website or on DEP's Algal Bloom Dashboard.

People can report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algae bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center by calling 800-222-1222. Anyone who believes their pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with blue-green algae contaminated water should contact their veterinarian.

For other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae, call DOH-Lee at 239-690-2100.