Health officials in Orange County have issued a blue-green algae warning for Lake McCoy.
On Thursday, July 13, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County issued a statement reporting the presence of harmful blue-green algae blooms at Lake McCoy. The alert comes in light of a site visit and water sample that were taken by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection on Wednesday, July 12.
The public is advised to exercise caution in and around Lake McCoy.
Algal blooms have the potential to produce toxins and are dynamic, changing at any time. Anyone who lives near or frequents the area around Lake McCoy is advised to not swim, wade, or use personal watercraft in the waters where there is visible bloom.
Additionally, residents are advised to avoid getting water in eyes, noses, or mouths. Livestock should be kept away from the waters in the location, and shellfish that is caught at the location should not be consumed.
For more information on the potential health effects of algal blooms, visit the Florida Department of Health Aquatic Toxins webpage.
Report an algal bloom online, contact the Florida Department of Environmental Protection at 855-305-3903 or visit them online.