EPA’s coordinates of the sample that was high in toxins. Residents have also reported seeing the green paint-like surface scum in shallow water in 3 other coves along East Lake Drive.
The surface scum comes and goes. You should not swim in a shallow area unless you know it has been clear of blooms. If you are considering swimming check out the EPA’s website. http://www.epa.illinois.gov/topics/water-quality/monitoring/algal-bloom/index. One important section reads:
“Health effects can occur when surface scums or waters containing high levels of algal toxins are swallowed, come in contact with skin, or when airborne droplets containing toxins are inhaled. The most common symptom from exposure to algal toxins is skin irritationOther symptoms can include: nausea, vomiting, throat irritation, allergic reactions, or difficulty breathing. The toxins produced by blue-green algae may also affect the liver and nervous system if water is ingested in sufficient quantities. The safest thing to do is to treat every algal bloom as if it could be dangerous.Recreational contact with water (swimming, bathing, or showering) that is not visibly affected by a blue-green algae bloom is not expected to cause adverse health effects.”