Head of the Charles won't be affected by bacteria bloom, officials say

"A cyanobacteria public health advisory along the Charles River has expanded to include all areas downstream of the Cambridge Street Bridge, according to an update released Thursday on Boston.gov. However, officials said that the advisory has been lifted at both Magazine Beach and the BU DeWolfe Boathouse, where the regatta will take place. Earlier this month, Boston health officials issued an emergency alert due to potentially harmful levels of cyanobacteria in the Charles River."

"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that the blue-green algae can cause skin rashes and eye irritation upon contact. Swallowing contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Children and small pets are more vulnerable to serious symptoms due to their smaller body weights, health officials said. City officials are asking people and pets to avoid the Charles River downstream of the Cambridge Street Bridge."

The Head of the Charles Regatta will proceed this weekend despite a growing cyanobacteria bloom in the Charles River. A public health advisory now includes all areas downstream of the Cambridge Street Bridge, though the advisory has been lifted at Magazine Beach and the BU DeWolfe Boathouse where the race starts. Testing found toxin-producing algae above safety thresholds in areas downstream from the three-mile race course. The regatta start is at BU DeWolfe Boathouse and the finish near Christian A. Herter Park, with about 12,000 rowers and 33,000 spectators expected. The CDC warns of skin, eye, and gastrointestinal symptoms, and city officials advise avoiding downstream water and rinsing off immediately after contact.

Read at Boston.com