Blue-green algae reported in Lake Okeechobee by Florida DOH in Glades County

The Florida Department of Health in Glades County is reporting the presence of blue-green algae in Lake Okeechobee, which was first found on Monday. According to the Florida DOH, water sample testing is underway. They are urging residents to exercise caution, as environmental conditions can change at any time, even if the presence of toxins has not been confirmed. Blue-green algae are a harmful bacteria that can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and pets. The bacteria are common in Florida's environments and present in blooms that emit an unpleasant odor. Florida DOH recommends residents and visitors take the following precautions: Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercrafts, or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom. Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have any contact with algae, or discolored or water that smells unpleasant. Keep pets and livestock away from the area to avoid any contact with water. Waters where algae blooms are present are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should use an alternative source of water when algae blooms are present. Do 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. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts, and cook fish thoroughly. Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and other partners collect algae samples from reported bloom locations and analyze them in a laboratory. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.