In a previous entry, I've higlighted a report that links the chlorine in indoor pools to asthma risks. I alluded to going natural and swimming in lakes, instead, but also mentioned that such may bring a whole load of new concerns for those with allergies.

Well, here's one report, for example: Over the last few years, there have been anecdotal reports of allergic reactions from people visiting some of the national parks in Florida, the most recent Aug. 11 from a man who, after 20 years of regularly swimming at the spring, broke out in hives on his arms for the first time.

Authorities from the Department of Environmental Protection maintain that it is still safe to swim in. No health warnings have been issued and The Florida Department of Health is sampling Ichetucknee and Silver Glen springs to check for Lyngbya, a type of blue-green algae.

Jim Stevenson, a retired state biologist and Florida springs expert, thinks the allergic reactions may be caused by the algae, and though the springs are still safe for swimming, people with severe allergies and children should be wary.

See the Tallahassee Democrat for the full report.

[Photo: Florida Online Park Guide]