The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County (DOH-Palm Beach) is advising residents and visitors to exercise caution due to the presence of blue-green algae in Lake Okeechobee – Pahokee Marina, as of February 24, 2026. Water sample testing is currently underway to determine the presence of toxins, but officials emphasize caution is warranted even before results are available due to changing environmental conditions.
Potential Health Risks
Blue-green algae can produce toxins harmful to humans, pets, and the broader ecosystem. Sensitive individuals—including children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems—are particularly vulnerable to adverse health effects.
Precautions recommended by DOH-Palm Beach include avoiding drinking, swimming, wading, or using personal watercrafts in areas with visible blooms. Individuals should wash skin and clothing with soap and water if contact occurs. Pets and livestock should be kept away from the affected area and provided with an alternative water source.
the department advises against cooking or cleaning dishes with water from the bloom area, as boiling does not eliminate the toxins. While fillets from healthy freshwater fish are considered safe to eat if properly rinsed, gutted, and thoroughly cooked, shellfish should be avoided.
Monitoring and Reporting
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and its partners are collecting algae samples from the affected location. Toxin results will be available on Protecting Florida Together or DEP’s Algal Bloom Dashboard. Residents can report algae blooms to DEP online or by calling 1-855-305-3903.
Symptoms from exposure to harmful algae blooms should be reported to the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222. Suspected illnesses in pets should be reported to a veterinarian, and reports of dead or distressed fish and wildlife should be made to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 800-636-0511.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is blue-green algae?
Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria common in Florida’s freshwater environments. A bloom occurs when rapid growth leads to discoloration of the water and the formation of floating mats with unpleasant odors.
How can I stay informed about water quality?
Current information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications is available at Protecting Florida Together, where you can likewise subscribe to receive updates.
What should I do if I suspect a health issue related to blue-green algae?
If you have health questions or concerns, call DOH-Palm Beach at 561-671-4013. For symptoms from exposure, contact the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.
Given the potential health risks associated with blue-green algae blooms, what steps can individuals seize to protect themselves and their communities from exposure?
