Human Health Effects of Cyanobacterial Toxins in the Great Lakes Region: A Science and Monitoring Assessment

Cyanotoxins are an unfortunate consequences of harmful algal blooms in fresh water systems in both Canada and the United States. This report is a literature review of the state of ecological and epidemiological science of cyanobacterial toxins with an emphasis on its relevance to conditions in the Great Lakes. It builds on the initiatives and findings of federal, provincial and state agencies which face the common challenge of maintaining safe aquatic environments for recreation and safe drinking water. Recommendations in this report pertaining to public health protection generally apply to fresh water systems that are affected by eutrophication in both Canada and the Unites States, with relevance for similarly impacted global ecosystems.