Stay out of the water: Algae blooms in Brookline, Newton pose health risk

BROOKLINE, Mass. —

Health officials are warning residents to avoid the water of Brookline Reservoir and Crystal Lake in Newton because of algae blooms.

Both bodies of water have blooms of a blue-green algae known as cyanobacteria, according to Brookline and Newton health officials.

This algae bloom can produce toxins that make human and pet contact with the water dangerous, said Brookline town health officials.

"Effective immediately, access to the water is restricted until further notice," Brookline town health officials warn.

Both humans and their pets are advised against swimming, fishing, boating, drinking or contacting the water and areas with visible algae. If contact occurs, health officials urge anyone affected to rinse immediately.

The cyanobacteria may cause the water to "appear cloudy or discolored, often with a blue-green tint. Algae blooms may resemble pea soup or look similar to spilled paint in water," said Brookline health officials.

Brookline officials warn that contact with the algae "can cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation in humans and gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested."

Ingesting greater amounts can lead to more serious health effects. For pets, ingesting or licking contaminated fur can be harmful and potentially fatal, say Brookline health officials. They urge anyone experiencing symptoms after contact to seek medical care immediately.

Brookline officials have notified the public that "access to the water will remain restricted until two consecutive weekly water samples confirm that algae levels are below the state’s safety threshold."