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As summer continues to bring warm weather and outdoor enjoyment to Cayuga County, the Health Department is issuing important reminders about potential health hazards: harmful algal blooms (HABs) and mosquito-borne illnesses. Staying informed and taking precautions is crucial for keeping yourself and your family safe.

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs): What You Need to Know

HABs, often referred to as blue-green algae, can occur in lakes and ponds during warmer months. These blooms can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Exposure can occur through drinking contaminated water, swimming in affected areas, or even inhaling aerosols near the bloom.

Symptoms of exposure to HAB toxins can include:

• Skin irritation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Respiratory irritation
• Liver damage (in severe cases)

Here's what to do:

• Avoid contact: Stay out of the water if you see a bloom – look for discolored water, scum on the surface, or an odour.
• Don't drink: Never drink untreated water from lakes or ponds.
• Keep pets away: Prevent pets from swimming in or drinking from affected waters.
• Report blooms: Report suspected HABs to the Cayuga County Health Department or the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Mosquito Safety: Protecting Yourself from Bites & Disease

Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit diseases like West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Cayuga County is actively monitoring mosquito populations and conducting spraying operations when necessary.

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Use repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus according to label instructions.
• Wear protective clothing: When possible, wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Regularly empty flowerpots, gutters, buckets, and other containers that can collect water.
• Ensure window and door screens are in good repair: This helps keep mosquitoes out of your home.

Stay Informed

The Cayuga County Health Department will continue to monitor both HABs and mosquito populations and provide updates as needed. Check the department's website (https://www.cayugacounty.us/health) and social media channels for the latest information and advisories.

Your health and safety are our priority. By taking these simple precautions, you can enjoy the summer months while minimizing your risk of exposure to harmful algal blooms and mosquito-borne illnesses.