Where It Comes From
Blooms of Nodularia (cyanobacteria) in warm, nutrient‑rich brackish or fresh waters; the toxin is relatively stable [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Swallowing bloom water, skin contact or inhaling spray; drinking contaminated surface‑water tap supplies; eating affected fish/shellfish [1][2].
Why It Matters
Hepatotoxin causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and liver damage; repeated exposure may promote liver tumors [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Young children, pregnant people, those with liver disease, dialysis patients, pets/livestock, recreators and water workers near blooms [1][2][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Follow bloom advisories; avoid discolored/scummy water; keep pets out; rinse after contact; use alternate water (don’t boil); certified activated‑carbon/RO filters may reduce cyanotoxins; heed seafood advisories [1][3].
References
- [1]World Health Organization (WHO). Cyanobacterial toxins: microcystins and nodularins. Background document for development of WHO Guidelines for drinking‑water quality.
- [2]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cyanobacterial (blue‑green algae) harmful algal blooms: health effects and exposure information.
- [3]U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms (CyanoHABs) in water; treatment and recreational guidance.