DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA — Authorities across the United States are issuing advisories to the public after several bodies of water were found to have dangerous levels of toxic blue-green algae. <br /> <br />The Center for Earth and Environmental Science at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis reports that blue-green algae or cyanobacteria can be found in any body of water, where warm temperatures and excessive phosphorous and nitrogen may cause it to reproduce explosively, creating "blooms". <br /> <br />Most blooms are harmless, but certain cyanobacteria species can produce toxins capable of damaging the central nervous system and the liver. <br /> <br />Those swimming or ingesting water with algal blooms have been known to experience skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. <br /> <br />Children and small animals are especially at risk of being harmed by the bacteria. Their smaller body size means they can be affected with a smaller amount of toxins, compared to a full-sized adult, according to the North Carolina Health and Human Services. <br /> <br />As a result, the public has been cautioned to avoid any contact with contaminated waters.
