The Florida Department of Environmental Protection<\/a> (DEP) reports, blue-green algae also known as, \u201ccyanobacteria\u201d typically develops in nutrient-rich lakes that contain high levels of phosphorous and nitrogen. Standard\u00a0conditions in Florida, such as high temperatures, warm water and ample sunlight provide ideal conditions for the toxic blooms to thrive.<\/p>\n The harmful algae blooms did not occur overnight. The Tampa Bay Times<\/a> reports that in May, water managers discovered a 33-square mile algae bloom in Lake Okeechobee.<\/p>\n In January, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started dumping water from the lake into the St. Lucie Estuary\u00a0due to flooding from heavy rains. The discharges from Lake Okeechobee, Florida\u2019s largest freshwater lake- also considered heavily toxic, began to flow into surrounding waters including the ocean.<\/p>\n According to samples taken by the DEP, the alga is toxic. The governor has declared a state of emergency twice this year. Affected areas include: Martin, St. Lucie, Lee and Palm Beach counties.<\/p>\n \u201cThe toxic nature of the algae blooms can cause serious health problems leaving children and pets vulnerable,\u201d says Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance<\/a>, Florida\u2019s top independent healthcare insurance agency.<\/a><\/p>\n The blue-green algae can cause skin rashes, nausea, respiratory issues, cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Long term problems include; liver, kidney and nervous system damage. If you leave in the affected counties and begin experiencing unusual symptoms, see a doctor promptly.<\/p>\n Environmental damage includes, killing seagrass, and small animals such as shrimp, crabs and even fish.<\/p>\n To help ease the algae bloom problem, the Army Corps began reducing the flow into the St. Lucie and the Caloosahatchee Estuaries. Officials will continue to monitor the algae\u2019s toxicity levels.<\/p>\n Blooms can last, days, weeks or months depending on conditions. Scientists cannot predict how long the blooms will last. The blooms run their course and dissipate naturally to prevent the spreading of toxins.<\/p>\n You can report algae blooms in your area by calling 1-855-305-3903 or visiting www.reportalgalbloom.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n GreatFlorida Insurance<\/a> provides customized and affordable health insurance<\/a> policies to suit you and your family, contact us today.<\/p>\n![\"501260065_17499000_8col\"](\"https:\/\/www.greatflorida.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/501260065_17499000_8col-300x205.jpg\")
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