The Lee County Department of Health has issued a blue-green algae health alert following the discovery of the harmful toxins in the Gator Slough Canal in Cape Coral.

On Tuesday, the Lee DOH reported its findings after a sample taken on Nov. 24, alerting nearby residents to exercise caution in and around the canal.

The DOH provided the following precautions that residents and visitors should follow while in the presence of blue-green algae.

Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom.

Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have any contact with algae, or if the water is discolored or smells unpleasant.

Keep pets and livestock away from the area to prevent contact with contaminated water. Waters where algae blooms are present are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should use an alternative source of water when algae blooms are present.

Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate toxins.

Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse the fish fillets with tap or bottled water, discard the guts, and cook the fish thoroughly.

Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.

According to the Department of Health, blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to humans, pets, and ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals.

Representatives of the DOH will provide updates regarding the water quality status of Gator Slough Canal at a later date. 

Nicholas Karsen is a Digital Specialist and has been with WINK News since May 2023.