News Summary
The Boston Public Health Commission has warned residents to avoid all contact with the Muddy River water because of a hazardous cyanobacteria bloom. The bloom has produced toxin levels exceeding safety guidelines set by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, posing serious health risks to humans and pets. Residents are advised to refrain from swimming and fishing activities in the affected area, and to stay informed about safety measures during this alarming environmental concern.
Boston – The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has issued a warning for residents to avoid all contact with the water in the Muddy River due to a hazardous cyanobacteria bloom. This warning applies to the section of the river located between Brookline Avenue and Avenue Louis Pasteur.
The bloom of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, has produced toxin levels that exceed the guidelines set by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH). It is essential for individuals and their pets to stay away from the water, as exposure can lead to serious health issues.
According to health experts, the blue-green algae can create a murky or paint-like appearance on the surface of the water. Residents are strongly advised to refrain from engaging in any water-related activities, including swimming and fishing, within the affected area. Contact with the contaminated water may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms in humans, such as vomiting and diarrhea, particularly if ingested.
Young children are notably vulnerable, as they may experience serious effects on liver, kidney, and neurological functions from cyanobacteria toxins. In severe cases, ingestion can even result in death. Furthermore, skin contact with the algae may lead to irritation of the skin and eyes. Should contact occur, individuals are advised to rinse thoroughly to mitigate any potential side effects.
Pet owners are also at risk, as dogs can be negatively impacted by exposure to the toxins found in the Muddy River. It is crucial to keep dogs away from the river to prevent them from ingesting contaminated water or from coming into contact with algae-covered surfaces. In cases where pets display symptoms after exposure—such as vomiting, staggering, drooling, or convulsions—immediate veterinary care is necessary.
The likelihood of harmful algae blooms increases during the summer months when warm temperatures promote algae growth. In addition to the Muddy River, similar blue-green algae blooms have been reported in nearby locations, including the Charles River and the Brookline Reservoir. While swimming is already prohibited in the Brookline Reservoir, the reinforcing of this prohibition is essential due to the potential toxins associated with algae.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is actively monitoring the situation. They will conduct laboratory testing to keep track of algae levels in affected areas. To lift the current advisory, two successive rounds of testing must indicate that the cyanobacteria levels are below the safety threshold of 70,000 cells per milliliter, with tests conducted one week apart.
For residents looking for updated information on bodies of water affected by similar algae blooms, the Massachusetts government website provides an updated list and additional guidance. It is crucial for residents to stay informed and observe the recommended safety measures to ensure both their health and the wellbeing of their pets during this period of concern.
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Additional Resources
- NBC Boston
- Wikipedia: Cyanobacteria
- Boston.com
- Google Search: cyanobacteria
- EIN News
- Google Scholar: cyanobacteria bloom
- Muddy River News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: algae bloom
- ABC7
- Google News: toxic algae bloom
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
