Contact:
Tammy Yzaguirre
Lee-PIO@flhealth.gov
(239) 308-5196

Lee County, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH) is expanding the health alert for the Cape Coral – Makai Canal to include the Highlander Canal based on reports of algae toxins found in the canal.  When blue-green algae is visible, DOH recommends individuals avoid contact with the water.  DEP will continue to post updates for the Cape Coral - Makai and Highlander Canals on their website. 

Blue-green algae can cause gastrointestinal effects if swallowed. Children and pets are especially vulnerable, so keeping them away from the water during a bloom is especially important. Additional information on blue-green algae is available here. If you wish to report a new algae bloom please visit DEP’s Algal Bloom Monitoring & Response webpage. 

DEP, the five water management districts, DOH, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services all work together to respond to algal blooms. DEP has been closely monitoring and testing algal blooms and will continue to respond to any new reports. 

About the Florida Department of Health 

The Florida Department of Health, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.