Public knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of cyanobacterial health effects in Central Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Cyanobacterial blooms are becoming more frequent and widespread, with potential health risks for people exposed to toxins through recreational water use. This study examined public knowledge of cyanobacteria and exposure prevention in the Simcoe/Muskoka region of Ontario, using mixed methods consisting of content analysis of 100 news media articles and survey responses from 110 participants. News media articles varied in quality; 33% explained how to identify a cyanobloom, and 49% provided advice on avoiding contact. The survey found that 71.8% of respondents primarily relied on news media for information. Participants expressed moderate concern about cyanobacteria (average rating 71.7/100), but 36.7% could not identify symptoms of cyanotoxin exposure, and 30% were unaware of cyanobloom signs. Among those who could identify cyanobloom signs, confidence was low (average rating 21/100). Overall, while news media coverage lacked crucial illness-prevention details, the public showed some awareness of how to reduce exposure risks.