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Lake County health officials issue blue-green algae bloom caution for Sawgrass Lake

EUSTIS, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Lake County is notifying residents near Sawgrass Lake of a blue-green algae bloom.

Officials learned of the bloom after water samples showed evidence of the possible contamination on Sept. 8.

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Because blooms have the potential to produce toxins, health officials advise people to take the following precautions:

— Do not drink, swim, wade, or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom.

— Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

— Keep pets and livestock away from the waters where there is a bloom.

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See map of location below:

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Blue-green algae is a common occurrence in freshwater environments throughout Florida and can appear year-round.

More information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications can be found here.

To report an algal bloom, contact FDEP at 855-305-3903 or online.

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Matt Reeser

Matt Reeser, WFTV.com

Matt Reeser joined WFTV in 1998 as a news photographer and has worked for television stations in Kentucky and West Virginia.