EDWARD’S FERRY, MD – Maryland’s Departments of Agriculture, Environment, Health, and Natural Resources have issued a pet health alert regarding algae mats found in the Potomac River. The affected area spans from Edwards Ferry to Great Falls in Montgomery County. These algae mats have the potential to be harmful to animals, and pet owners are urged to keep their pets away from the water in this specific location until further notice.
The algae mats are visually similar to fine, green cotton and can be observed along the shoreline, attached to rocks or plants, floating downstream, or on the riverbed. While there is no immediate threat to human health, experts recommend avoiding contact with these mats as a precautionary measure. If anyone has recently been in contact with the water and is experiencing any illness or symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention.
Ongoing monitoring efforts will be conducted, and the public will be notified when the conditions improve. For more information on safeguarding your pets, guidance is available at the following link: https://www.cdc.gov/habs/specifi