A major bloom of blue-green algae has been discovered in part of the Charles River, prompting a public health advisory for people not to swim, fish, boat, or take part in other forms of recreation. The algae, formally known as cyanobacteria, was confirmed downstream of the Longfellow Bridge on Thursday by the state Department of Public Health.

The bacteria can be dangerous to humans and animals, health officials say. The post Harmful bacteria bloom found in Charles River appeared first on Boston.com.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has confirmed a cyanobacteria bloom at Longfellow Bridge’s downstream of the Charles River. This the first major bloom in four years and is being considered a public health advisory.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health posted an advisory for the area of the river between the Longfellow Bridge and the Cambridge Dam due to a bloom of cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria is a blue-green algae that can release cyanotoxins,