SPRINGFIELD – Following sampling on the Illinois River, Illinois officials have confirmed the presence of unsafe levels of the algal toxin, microcystin.
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SPRINGFIELD – Following sampling on the Illinois River, Illinois officials have confirmed the presence of unsafe levels of the algal toxin, microcystin. Tests showed the level was above the 4 parts per billion (ppb) health advisory established by the U.S. EPA.
An initial screening test conducted on a water sample taken last week near Hennepin indicated an elevated level of microcystin. The Illinois EPA’s lab confirmed the microcystin level in the sample at 182 ppb, well above the health advisory limit. The confirmatory sample taken near Marseilles detected microcystin at 4.75 ppb, just slightly above the health advisory limit. Illinois EPA will conduct additional sampling this week to determine if conditions have improved along the Illinois River.
Sampling was also done at Illinois American Water-Peoria, the only public water supply using the Illinois River as a water source. That sample showed toxins below the detection limit in finished water samples.
Residents are advised to use caution during any recreational activities in, on or near Illinois rivers, lakes and streams as blue-green algae may bloom in these waters. Some blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Blue-green algae (also known as a cyanobacteria) are microscopic organisms that naturally occur in lakes and streams.
Algol toxins, such as microcystin, are sometimes produced by blue-green algae and can cause sickness or other adverse health effects in people and pets, depending on the amount and type of exposure. The very young, elderly, and people with compromised immune systems are most at risk.
Adverse health effects attributable to algal toxins can occur from direct skin contact, swallowing contaminated water or inhaling water droplets in the air. Symptoms of exposure include rashes, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing or wheezing. More severe symptoms may result from longer or greater amounts of exposure.
People who plan to engage in activities in, on or near Illinois rivers, lakes or streams are advised to avoid contact with water that:
Additionally, do not let pets drink from water with any of the above characteristics.
If you or your pet come into contact with water you suspect may have a bloom of blue-green algae, rinse off with clean, fresh water as soon as possible. With all activities that may involve contact with lake or stream water, wash your hands before eating.
If you are concerned you have symptoms that are a result of exposure to algal toxins, contact your health care provider or call the Illinois Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. If your pet experiences symptoms that may be a result of exposure, contact your veterinarian.
For additional information about harmful algal blooms, please visit Illinois Department of Public Health at http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/environmental-health-protection/toxicology/habs or the Illinois EPA at http://www.epa.illinois.gov/topics/water-quality/monitoring/algal-bloom/index.