Thursday, August 27, 2026 ~ Boston Public Health Commission Expands Cyanobacteria Advisory for Charles River Lower Basin

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has issued an alert to residents regarding the expansion of the existing cyanobacteria public health advisory for the Charles River Lower Basin. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has recommended that the advisory be extended to include all points downstream of the Boston University Duan Family Center for Computing & Data Sciences Building, also known as the "Jenga Tower."

According to a recent assessment conducted by DPH staff, cyanobacteria levels in the waterway have exceeded DPH guidelines for recreational waterbodies in Massachusetts. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, produce toxins that can be harmful to both humans and pets. As a result, residents are urged to avoid contact with the water and any areas with visible algae concentrations, even on shore.

The BPHC is advising people and pets to refrain from swimming or participating in any other water activities in the affected area. Additionally, dogs should not be allowed to swim in or drink from the waterway. A map with precise locations of the affected area can be found at the bottom of this press release.

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In case of accidental contact with the water or algae on shore, individuals are advised to rinse off immediately. Blue-green algae blooms can make water appear murky and may resemble pea soup or paint. These blooms can produce toxins that may cause illness if ingested or come into contact with skin or eyes.

For humans, ingestion of water containing blue-green algae while swimming is a primary concern. Direct skin contact and inhalation of water droplets containing blue-green algae or toxins are secondary concerns. In dogs, ingestion of contaminated water or scum that has washed ashore can lead to serious health issues such as vomiting, staggering, drooling, and convulsions.

Symptoms usually present themselves soon after exposure and it is important for pet owners to seek immediate veterinary care if their dog shows any of these signs. In some cases, ingestion of harmful algae can result in death, especially for smaller pets and children due to their smaller body weights.

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The BPHC reminds residents that harmful algae blooms are most common during the summer months when warm and sunny conditions promote algae growth. The website mass.gov/algae-blooms provides an updated list of all bodies of water with current algae bloom advisories. These blooms can last for weeks or disappear quickly, depending on environmental conditions.

The DPH will continue to monitor cyanobacteria levels in the affected area and conduct sampling for laboratory analysis once the bloom has dissipated. The advisory will only be lifted if two rounds of samples collected a week apart show levels below the threshold of 70,000 cells/milliliter of water.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact the Boston Public Health Commission's Environmental and Occupational Health Division at (617) 534-5965.

In conclusion, the BPHC urges residents to take precautions and avoid contact with the Charles River Lower Basin until further notice. By following these recommendations, individuals can help protect themselves and their pets from potential health risks associated with cyanobacteria blooms.

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