Health Alert: Blue-green algae found in Lake Maitland

Health officials issue blue-green algae bloom caution for Lake Cheltone The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has issued a Health Caution for the presence of blue-green algae in Lake Chelton. (Florida Department Of Health Orange County)

By Nicolle Osorio

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Orange County is notifying residents near Lake Maitland of blue-green algae bloom.

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Officials learned of the blooms after water samples showed evidence of the possible contamination on April 12.

The alert means the public should be cautious in and around the lake until it is cleared.

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Officials said the blue-green algae could impact human health and ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals.

Here are some more safety tips for residents and visitors from the health department:

  • Avoid drinking, swimming, wading, using personal watercraft, water skiing, or boat in waters with a visible bloom.
  • Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Keep pets and livestock away from the waters in this location.
  • Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts, and cook fish well.
  • Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.

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9 facts about sargassum Here are nine facts about sargassum from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: (WFTV Staff)

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