Toxic algae discovered in the “Russian” river in California

Фото: Depositphotos

Authorities in Sonoma County, California, are warning local residents about the dangers of toxic algae in the Russian River. Tests of the samples showed it was the same blue-green algae that led to the dog's death last year.

The toxic substance "toxoid" was found on four public beaches along the river. Warning signs have been posted at these and other beaches advising children and animals to be kept away from the river.

“We're trying to inform and educate people so they can make the right decisions for themselves, their children and their animals,” said Karen Holbrook, deputy director of the Sanoma County Health Department.

The current toxicity level is about 1% of what caused the dog's death last year, but Holbrook said it is still a "dangerous toxin" that all local residents should be aware of.

“Dogs are at major risk because they are attracted by the color of the blue-green algae, which they want to play with,” says a spokesman for the agency.

Toxoid can cause loss of coordination, problems walking and muscle twitching, and in some cases, breathing problems, seizures and death.

The Sanoma Health Department began research on samples on Monday, drawing attention to conditions that may contribute to an increase in the number of dangerous algae.

It is reportedly now strictly forbidden to drink water from the Russian River and use it in the process of cooking.

Since the beginning of the 19th century, Russian River bore the name "Slavyanka", which it received after a Russian-American company equipped two expeditions to the area in order to find a place for an agricultural settlement.

Its current name of the river on the Pacific coast of the United States received after the departure of Russian settlers.

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