Health officials warn beachgoers of Lake Erie algae bloom
FAIRPORT HARBOR, Ohio (AP) – Officials in Lake County east of Cleveland say a harmful algae bloom is encroaching on popular Lake Erie beaches.
The Lake County General Health District issued the warning Friday afternoon, just before the Labor Day holiday weekend is expected to bring crowds to Fairport Harbor and Mentor Headlands beaches.
The health department says the blue-green algae bloom can produce toxins that can make humans and pets sick.
The toxin levels at the beaches are below the acceptable threshold, but since wind and current can carry the bloom, people going in the water are advised to use caution. Boaters and jet skiers are cautioned also that water spray contact on skin or inhaling water droplets may cause health problems.
Algae blooms have become an annual problem in Lake Erie.