What do we know about HAB-related skin conditions?
According to the CDC's most recent HAB illness surveillance summary report, the most common symptoms that can develop after skin is exposed to cyanobacteria or cyanotoxins are rashes, itchy skin, and skin blisters. These symptoms typically develop within a few hours after the exposure and are more likely to occur where clothing is held tightly against skin, like under swimsuits, waistbands, and socks. This is because cyanobacterial cells can get caught between skin and clothing, break open, and release toxins which can result in a skin injury, The integrity of the skin can also impact its reaction to cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins. Young skin that isn't fully developed might not be strong enough to protect against toxins, and overly dry, injured, or broken skin may be more susceptible to skin reactions from toxin exposures.
Treatment for HAB-related skin illnesses is supportive. Patients should remove contaminated clothing and jewelry (for example, clothing or jewelry they wore into water with a harmful algal bloom). Patients should also wash their skin with soap and water for 10–15 minutes. You may consider antihistamines or steroids to treat symptoms caused by skin contact with contaminated water.
To avoid getting sick from a harmful algal bloom, make sure to rinse yourself and your pet off with fresh, clean water after swimming in lakes, rivers, and ponds. Call your doctor or veterinarian if you or you pet develop severe symptoms.
New dermal research from the University of Toledo
Up until recently, it was believed that toxins aren’t absorbed through the skin and into the body, so they wouldn’t cause symptoms beyond skin irritation. However, new research from the University of Toledo is showing that microcystin can penetrate the skin and enter the body to impact internal organs. People with pre-existing health conditions like dermatitis or kidney disease might experience worsened symptoms compared to a general, “healthy” population.
A UToledo Graduate student and dermatologist work with the 9-station Franz Cell system that allows researchers to simultaneously test multiple samples under controlled conditions, providing precise and reliable data on the absorption rates of cyanotoxins. Photo courtesy of David Kennedy.
Guess That Rash!
Pictured below are skin rashes the DHS has investigated over the years. Most of these rashes are not HAB-related and have a different cause. Think you’re a rash expert? Test your knowledge by matching the skin condition to the correct photo below. The answer key is located at the bottom of this newsletter.
a) General swelling b) HAB toxicity c) Scabies d) Poison Oak e) Swimmer’s Itch
Upcoming HAB webinars
A Bittersweet Goodbye
After four years of leading DHS's HAB Program, Jordan Murray will be leaving the program to pursue a new role as a groundwater toxicologist at DHS. Jordan has enjoyed her time working with local partners to investigate HAB illnesses and help people and animals stay safe from harmful water conditions. Writing this newsletter has been one of her favorite parts of this job. While in her new role, Jordan will temporarily continue some HAB-related work like leading presentations at upcoming conferences and publishing outreach materials. The HAB Program mailbox (dhshabs@dhs.wi.gov) will be monitored while we work to fill the position.
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Answer Key
1. b 2. a 3. e 4. d 5. c
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Remember that we are always available for consultation on any HAB health-related issue by email or phone (608-266-1120).
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