The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is advising Alabamians not to consume certain varieties of fish from some rivers and lakes in Alabama. ADPH has issued an advisory outlining which fish species should be avoided in order to protect people from possible health risks. The advisory provides specific information about which species pose potential dangers and how to identify them. ADPH reminds everyone to use caution when consuming any type of fish, ensuring that proper hygiene and preparation techniques are always used.
Before heading out fishing in North Alabama, it is important to be aware of certain species of fish that have been identified by local officials as ones that should be avoided. This would include not purchasing or keeping these fish as part of your catch. Knowing which fish should be avoided would help to ensure a good and safe fishing experience in the region.
The discovery of high levels of mercury in fish species from various lakes and rivers in Alabama has raised public health concerns. If ingested in large amounts, mercury can cause damage to the central nervous system and even cardiovascular problems. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management is continuing to evaluate the state’s aquatic ecosystems and looking for ways to reduce the mercury levels.
The Alabama Department of Environmental Management recommends that fish consumption should be limited to one or two servings per week, according to the advice of the Department of Public Health.
At Lake Guntersville, advisories regarding the consumption of largemouth bass vary depending on the body of water. In Town Creek, the advisory recommends that people refrain from eating the fish, whereas Widows Creek allows people to eat it only once a month.
In areas where advisories are in effect, ADEM advises that swimming, boating, and catch and release fishing are considered safe activities, as long as individuals are mindful of the special attention focused on certain species that have the potential to be harmful.
ADEM is focused on communicating our message to the public, and we’ve installed signs with QR codes across the state. Scanning these codes will provide citizens with the latest fish consumption advisories relevant to their area. To view the map, go to the ADPH website.
(Source: ADPH)
