Discovery Bay (KRON)—Health officials in Contra Costa County and the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board are urging Discovery Bay residents to stay out of bodies of water because of the possibility of blue-green algae.
If people are exposed to this type of algae, it can cause rashes, allergic reactions and other symptoms. If there are high levels of blue-green algae, it can cause an serious illness or death.
“We want people in the area to be on the lookout for water with green material floating in the water,” Dr. Marilyn Underwood, the director of the Environmental Health Division of Contra Costa Health Services. “Even if you’re not sure it’s blue-green algae, it’s best if your family and your dogs do not to go in the water. When in doubt, stay out.”
No illnesses from blue-green algae in Contra Costa County have been reported so far.