Harmful Algae Detected On Ohio River

This is as good a reason as any to call it a day (or summer) on the Ohio River.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) – Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) have been detected on the Ohio River.

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) announced Friday that the HABs have been confirmed on the Ohio River in the vicinity of Cincinnati and Louisville.

Algal blooms have also been found in other portions of the river, both upstream and downstream of the two cities.

HABs are made up of blue-green algae, and exposure during recreational activities such as swimming, wading and water-skiing may lead to rashes, skin and eye irritation and other uncomfortable effects such as nausea, stomach aches, and tingling in fingers and toes.

Anyone who does come into contact with algae should bath or shower with warm, soapy water, especially before preparing or consuming food. If you should experience any of the above symptoms, please contact your doctor.

Additionally, pets and livestock should not be allowed to swim in or drink untreated waters.  

For more information, visit www.in.gov/isdh.