As the summer is coming to a close, our Worcester- and Auburn-based dental team members are looking forward to at least one more swim before the cold sets in. As dental professionals we care about our patients’ dental health but also their overall health. One thing we want our dental patients to look out for before going for a swim is cyanobacteria.
What are cyanobacteria?
Cyanobacteria are bacteria that thrive in the warm, still waters of lakes and ponds heated by the summer heat. The cyanobacteria thrive in the warmth of summer, especially after heavy rains that wash fresh nutrients into the water. The cyanobacteria release a toxin into the ponds and lakes that can make people and pets swimming in the water sick.
How can I tell which lakes and ponds in Worcester and Auburn have cyanobacteria in them?
Our dental team is grateful to live in the Worcester area where the Worcester Cyanobacteria Monitoring Collaborative keeps track of which bodies of water are infested. You can see the latest results of their monitoring on their website.
Aside from looking at the WCMC report, you can also tell by looking at the water when it has a large concentration of cyanobacteria in it. If the water looks or smells weird don’t go in or let your pet in.
We hope this little guide will help our dental patients and other Worcester residents stay safe as they enjoy the last few days of summer.