As people are enjoying outdoor recreational activities, including water sports, safety reminders are needed in case  the water appears different or smells bad, it might be best to not get in. 

Dallas County Health Department Public Information Officer Ann Cochran says for those who may be engaging in water activities, cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, can have adverse effects on those who may come into contact with it including gastrointestinal issues and skin irritation, among other things. 

“Water with algae is scum covered and it smells bad so pay attention to what your eyes and your nose are trying to tell you, stay away from that water. Your body is trying to protect you from contact with blue-green algae just because it smells and looks icky. So, that’s a good reason to stay away from it.”

Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio that while blue-green algae can cause negative reactions for humans, there can also be effects if your furry friends come into contact with the bacteria.

“The very same types of symptoms that would appear in people could be in your dog. So, don’t throw a stick into a(n) algae covered pond for your dog to go fetch. They’ll get the same symptoms and they will suffer just as you would.”

Cochran says blue-green algae is the most frequently found in Iowa and it will bloom very quickly when the water is warm and stagnant.