EASTHAMPTON, Mass. – The Easthampton Health Department in Hampshire County has identified a possible cyanobacteria algae bloom in Rubber Thread Pond.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health Toxicology Program says all contact with the water should be avoided, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking.

They say harmful algae blooms can be a serious health concern, depending on the level of exposure.

Small children and pets are more susceptible to the effects of toxins than adults, with livestock and pet deaths from ingesting the algal toxins having occurred in the past.

MDPH will says they will conduct a follow up sampling once the bloom is no longer evident.

They say dogs should be rinsed off immediately if they come into contact with the algae bloom.