Virginia public health officials on Friday afternoon advised against swimming in the upper section of the North Anna Branch of Lake Anna, including the popular sandbar area and downstream to the Route 522 bridge, due to harmful levels of algae.
The algae bloom is unrelated to a recent outbreak of E. coli that sickened at least 25 people, according to a swimming advisory issued by the Virginia Department of Health.
End of carouselThe health department advised people and pets to avoid swimming, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding and other activities that risk ingesting water. Boating is allowed with proper precaution in trouble spots, the department said.
Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients mix, health officials said. They warned people to avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.
Advertisement
Generally, advisories lift after two consecutive tests showing acceptable levels for algal cell counts and/or toxin concentration, and the first test is set for July 15, officials said.
The health department posted online an interactive map of the harmful algal bloom and status reports are available at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 6.21.2024. Anyone who suspects health problems due to an exposure should call the Harmful Algal Bloom hotline at 1-888-238-6154.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7uK3SoaCnn6Sku7G70q1lnKedZLGkecydZK%2BZX2d9c4COaW1oamFkuaK3xGaYp6aRYsC4tcymoKefXZaxt7XSqKmyZZiWv66y1KVkmqSXlrJw