By Talbert Toole
Lifestyles Editor
talbert.toole@hottytoddy.com
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality issued a statement Monday in reference to nine beaches in Harrison and Hancock counties closing due to a blue-green “Harmful Algal Bloom” (HAB) growing on the surfaces of the water.
LOU residents should reconsider visiting the Mississippi Coast for vacation due to the algae’s harmful side effects to both humans and pets until the situation is resolved.
According to MDEQ, samplings in the Pass Christian Harbor and Long Beach Harbor tested positive for the presence of the algae.
Side effects from making contact with HAB could cause rashes, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, the MDEQ reports.
If exposed to HAB, MDEQ advises to thoroughly wash with soap. The department also advises to not eat fish or any other seafood that could have been affected by the algae.
Harrison County closures:
Station 5 – Pass Christian West Beach
Station 6 – Pass Christian Central Beach
Station 7 – Pass Christian East Beach
Station 7A – Long Beach Beach
Station 10 – Gulfport Central Beach
Hancock County closures:
Station 1 – Lakeshore Beach
Station 2 – Buccaneer State Park Beach
Station 3 – Waveland Beach
Station 4 – Bay St. Louis Beach
All other beaches on the coast are to remain open.
In the statement by MDEQ, it stated the department is working with the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources in the algae situation.
For more information and location of sampling stations along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, visit the Mississippi Beach Monitoring Program.
