Possible Algae Toxicity

Austin Public Health (APH) and the Austin Watershed Protection Department are investigating the death of a dog that died within an hour of swimming at “Barking Springs,” on Sunday, July 10, 2022. Barking Springs is the part of Barton Creek immediately downstream from Barton Springs Pool. The cause of death is unknown, but exposure to toxic algae is a possibility.

Resources for veterinarians 

CDC Cyanobacterial Blooms: Information for Veterinarians 

https://www.cdc.gov/habs/specific-groups/veterinarians-cyanobacteria.html 

Resources for physicians 

CDC Cyanobacterial Blooms: Information for Healthcare Providers  

https://www.cdc.gov/habs/specific-groups/healthcare_providers.html  

Association of State and Territorial Health Officials Cyanobacterial Blooms and Associated Illnesses A Clinician Toolbox for Physicians and Healthcare Providers 

https://www.astho.org/globalassets/pdf/cyanobacterial-blooms-and-associated-illnesses-presentation.pdf  

 Resources for the public 

City of Austin Harmful Algae webpage (includes link to reporting forms) 

CDC Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB)-Associated Illness 

https://www.cdc.gov/habs/index.html  

EPA Harmful Algal Blooms 

https://www.epa.gov/nutrientpollution/harmful-algal-blooms