Algae In Discovery Bay Prompts Health Advisory For Residents, Pets

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA -- Harmful blue-green algae was detected in Eastern Contra Costa County's Discovery Bay in samples taken nearly two weeks ago, Contra Costa Health Services' Environmental Health Division said Wednesday.

Inspectors began sampling the waters of Discovery Bay in mid-June because of multiple complaints, and tests of a sample collected June 29 indicates that the algae is present, according to health officials.

Exposure can result in serious illness or death at higher levels, but typically just causes rash, skin and eye irritation or allergic reactions.

In 2016, in at least one instance a child became sick after swimming in Discovery Bay, according to the Town of Discovery Bay.

"Results from water samples taken in the southwestern portion of Discovery Bay found levels of toxin above the state guideline," town officials said in a statement Wednesday. "In those areas, we advise residents to stay out of the water and keep their pets out of the water."

Town officials also advised that water in Discovery Bay is actively pumped from one place to the next, thus water that is in one location one day is in a different location the next.

"Thus we also advise all Discovery Bay residents that it is prudent to be cautious and to stay out of the water if they see scum or algae blooms," town officials said.

County officials said citizens should note the nature of advisory signs posted along the waterfront.

"Caution" signs mean do not swim or wade near algae, keep children and dogs away from it in the water or on the shore, do not drink the water or cook with it and don't eat shellfish from the water.

"Warning" signs mean all of the above, but no swimming at all is allowed and fishermen should throw away the guts of any fish caught there, cleaning the fillets with tap or bottled water before cooking.

"Danger" signs mean to stay out of the water until further notice, do not eat fish or shellfish caught in those waters and don't use the water for drinking or cooking. It can't be made safe by boiling or filtering.

Anyone showing signs of blue-green algae poisoning can call the California Poison Center Help Hotline at 800-222-1222.

Bay City News Service contributed to this report.

Image via Town of Discovery Bay