• Algae and Cyanobacteria are tiny plant-like organisms that, under the right conditions, can overgrow in rivers, lakes and oceans.
    HABs can be associated with foam, scum, or thick layers of algae on the surface of the water
    They can look and smell bad and can cause the water to appear green, red, brown or blue in color

  • Some algal blooms are formed by species that can produce toxins that are harmful to humans, animals, and the environment. Exposure to these toxins can be via skin contact, swallowing contaminated water, breathing in toxins, and/or eating contaminated food.


    Symptoms of exposure can include: vomiting, diarrhea, neurological symptoms (muscle weakness, dizziness), liver damage, or stomach pain


    You cannot visually tell whether or not an algal bloom is producing toxins.

  • The major factors influencing the growth and reproduction of cyanobacteria are:
    Sunlight
    Slow-moving water
    Nutrients (Nitrogen and Phosphorus)
    Relatively warm water temperature

  • If a HAB is present in the waterbody, do not drink, swim, or wade in the water


    Don’t let your dog eat scum or algae, or lick the water off their fur


    If there is contact with the water, rinse off with fresh water
    “When in Doubt, Stay Out”


  • If your pet has been in contact with a HAB, immediately wash them off with clean water and keep them from licking the water off their skin
    Call your veterinarian if your animal shows any signs or symptoms such as:
    Vomiting
    Foaming at the mouth
    Diarrhea
    Convulsions
    Excessive Drooling
    Tremors and Seizures
    Loss of energy and/or appetite

  • Contact SCDHEC’s HAB program at:
    803-898-8374
    Email