JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Florida Dept. of Health in Duval County issued a health alert for the presence of harmful blue-green algae toxins in the St. Johns River Friday.
A water sample was taken Monday in the St. Johns River and came back with dangerous levels of blue-green algae in and around the river near Mandarin Point, according to the health department.
Health officials warn residents and visitors to avoid drinking, swimming, wading or coming into any kind of contact with the waters where there is visible algae bloom. If you come into contact with it, wash off with soap and water. Additionally, do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.
"Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria that is common in Florida’s freshwater environments," the health department says. "A bloom occurs when rapid growth of algae leads to an accumulation of individual cells that discolor water and often produce floating mats that emit unpleasant odors."
Blue-green algae blooms are dangerous they produce toxins, which can be harmful to humans and pets as well as the ecosystem.
Warm temperatures and steady sunlight can contribute to blue-green algae blooms.