Illinois EPA Cautions About Harmful Algal Blooms To People And Pets

The Illinois EPA and health department are reminding people to use caution in Illinois waterways this summer when harmful algal blooms.

Blue-green algae are microscopic organisms that naturally occur in lakes, streams, and ponds. Rapid and expansive growth of blue-green algae is referred to as a bloom. Some blooms produce toxic chemicals that can cause sickness or other health effects in exposed people and pets.