Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB)

It's an overgrowth of microscopic algae that derives energy from the sun. This can occur in both fresh and salt bodies of water.

There can be severals causes: stagnant water, pollution, warm water or climate change.

Yes, they can be. Humans and pets should avoid contact with any water that appears slimy, scummy or smells foul.

On the water surface, it can look like froth, foam, paint or scum. It can be several different colors to include: bluish-green, red, brown, yellow or even pink.

Through:

• Skin Contact
• Inhalation
• Ingestion

• Ear, eye, nose, skin, throat irritation and headache
• Paralysis, respiratory illness and seizures
• Abdominal pain, diarrhead, liver and kidney damage. Vomiting.

• Drooling, diarrhea, low engery, not eating, stumbling, tremors. Vomiting.

• Shower immeidately
• Contact your Primary Care Physician (PCP) if symptoms occur
• Contact the National Poison Control Center at: 1-800-222-1222

• Contact the Shrewsbury Health Department at: 508-841-8384