Utah reservoir closed due to toxic algae bloom

Blackridge Reservoir is being closed to swimmers due to a bloom of toxic algae.

Jorge Mendez with the Salt Lake County Health Department said that test results received yesterday showed harmful levels of the algae in the water.

The toxin produced by the algae causes skin irritation and rashes, vomiting, diarrhea and other internal problems if swallowed.

The health department has posted signs saying the water in the reservoir is closed until further notice.

Mendez says even playing with wet sand that has been contaminated with the algae toxin could lead to illness.