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Boston health officials issue warning after toxic algae found in Charles River
The cyanobacteria bloom, also known as blue-green algae, can sicken people and animals who come in contact with it.
Boston public health officials are warning people to avoid a section of the Charles River following the discovery of a dangerous algae bloom.
The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) said Friday that a cyanobacteria algae bloom was found in the Charles River downstream of Massachusetts Avenue and the Harvard Bridge. Testing revealed that the cyanobacteria levels exceed state guidelines for recreational waterbodies in Massachusetts.
Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, produce toxins that can make people and pets sick. Residents are urged to avoid contact with the water and any areas of algae concentration, even on shore.
Charles River downstream of the Harvard Bridge includes Broad Canal, Lechmere Canal, North Point Park, Lederman Park, Community Boating docks, and Storrow Lagoon. The areas are temporarily closed to water activities, meaning visitors can’t swim, fish, boat, allow their dogs to swim in or drink the water, or engage in other water-related recreation.
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People who come in contact with the algae are at risk of experiencing skin or eye irritation, breathing problems, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, liver, kidney, or neurological issues are possible. Anyone who comes in contact with the water should rinse off immediately.
Officials said that pets face similar risks and even death if they drink or swim in the water.
Dogs tend to eat the scum that washes ashore and lick scum off their fur. Several dog deaths have been documented in Massachusetts due to the ingestion of harmful algae, according to the BPHC.
Dog owners should immediately call a veterinarian if their dog has been around an algae bloom and shows symptoms such as vomiting, staggering, drooling, or convulsions.
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Blue-green algae can grow rapidly in lakes, ponds, and rivers, creating harmful blooms that make the water look murky — sometimes resembling pea soup or spilled paint. The toxins can be found both inside the algae cells and in the surrounding water.
Algae blooms can last days or weeks during warm weather. The Department of Public Health will keep testing the water until it’s safe. The advisory will be lifted once two consecutive water samples, taken a week apart, show algae levels below 70,000 cells/mL.
Residents can direct questions about the algae bloom to the Mayor’s Health Line at 617-534-5050.
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