The Lenawee County Health Department said on June 27 that it has been notified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services of a suspected harmful algal bloom, also known as blue-green algae or cyanobacteria, at Devils Lake.

On June 25, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy received a report of a possible algal bloom along the northeast shoreline of Devils Lake, approximately one-half mile south of U S. 223. A preliminary review of submitted photographs suggests the presence of a bloom.

Harmful algal blooms can pose health risks to both people and animals. The health department advises residents and visitors to avoid contact with water that appears discolored, has surface scum, or emits a foul odor. Clear areas of the waterbody may still be safe for recreational use; however, individuals should avoid any areas where the bloom is visible for as long as it persists.

The health department recommends Devils Lake visitors avoid entering the water where the algal bloom is visible and to keep pets from drinking or being exposed to the water. These precautions should be followed until the bloom has cleared.

Cyanobacteria can fluctuate in their toxin production, with levels that can change rapidly. These toxins can pose significant health risks to both humans and animals, particularly dogs, which are highly susceptible. The size and location of a harmful algal bloom can shift quickly, so visitors should avoid contact with any water that appears discolored, such as green or blue-green, or that resembles spilled paint. Additionally, avoid scum formations in the water, as they can cause allergic reactions upon skin contact.

The health department will continue to monitor the situation and share updates if additional information becomes available.

If you suspect that you or your pets have come into contact with a harmful algal bloom, it is important to rinse off immediately. Monitor pets for any signs of illness, and seek medical attention for yourself, your children, or your animals if symptoms develop after contact with the water.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to take the following actions in areas where an algal bloom is visible: 

• Avoid areas with scummy water in the lake or water that looks like spilled paint or pea soup, floating scum, or has a green sheen. These may contain flecks, mats, foam, sheens, streaks, or clumps.
• Avoid water-related activities in areas where the bloom is visible. Individuals who have skin contact, swallow large amounts, or play in the water are susceptible to illness.
• Keep pets from drinking or playing in the lake water. Symptoms of illness often appear quicker in animals than humans – sometimes in minutes to a few hours. Symptoms in animals can include vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, staggered walking, excessive salivation, convulsions, erratic behavior, physical distress, and death.
• Do not boat or ski in water with HABs as it may create water spray in the air.
• Use caution if eating fish from impacted bodies of water, as part of the fish may contain small amounts of toxins.
• Shower yourself and pets immediately if you come into contact with a HAB
• Contact your medical provider or vet if you or your pet have ingested or been exposed to a HAB.

Toxins can cause illness, which can appear within hours to days after exposure. Severity of illness will depend on the type of toxin and length of exposure.

Skin or water spray contact may result in:

• Rashes, hives, or skin blisters
• Runny eyes and noses or asthma-like symptoms
• Throat irritation

Swallowing large amounts of water containing toxins while swimming, wading, or playing in the water may cause:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Gastrointestinal illness
• Neurotoxic symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, numbness, headaches, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Swallowing large amounts of toxins can harm the liver or kidneys.

Summer is peak season for the formation of harmful algal blooms that can present health hazards to people and pets. In Michigan, algal blooms typically occur during periods of warm temperatures, lots of sun, and high nutrient levels. It is impossible to determine whether algal blooms contain harmful toxins just by looking at them, so it is best to avoid contact with any body of water with visible algae or scums. Suspected HABs should be reported to EGLE by calling 800-662-9278 or sending an email to [email protected]. 

For more information about HABs in Michigan, visit www.michigan.gov/habs.