Cyanobacteria warning issued for Kitsap Lake after tests confirm presence of toxins
Kitsap County Washington sent this bulletin at 10/18/2017 03:30 PM PDT
October 18, 2017
KITSAP COUNTY, WA
Cyanobacteria warning issued for Kitsap Lake after tests confirm presence of toxins
The public is advised to avoid all contact with lake due to health risks for people and animals
Today the Kitsap Public Health District issued a cyanobacteria warning for Kitsap Lake. The public should to avoid all contact with Kitsap Lake due the confirmed presence of toxic cyanobacteria – also known as blue-green algae.
In early May, the District posted caution signs at public access points along the lake due to the presence of potentially toxic cyanobacteria. Sampling conducted throughout the summer identified low levels of toxins.
A recent sample from the lake confirmed elevated levels of toxins (6.2 micrograms per liter). A warning is issued when toxins exceed 6 micrograms per liter.
Because toxic cyanobacteria can make people sick, and can kill pets, fish, waterfowl and livestock, the public is advised to:
Avoid all contact with the lake water until further notice. This means no swimming, wading, or types of water play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth, nose or eyes (especially in areas where the algae are concentrated).
Avoid ingesting lake or stream water. If a resident draws lake water for drinking purposes, they are encouraged to drink bottled water until further notice.
Limit access of pets and livestock to the lake.
Avoid consuming fish caught during the algae bloom.
Rinse boats and trailers thoroughly before going to another lake.
No illnesses have been reported to Kitsap Public Health at this time. Warning signs are posted at public-access areas and roadsides around the lake. Residents who live near lakes or people visiting the lake are encouraged to look for cyanobacteria blooms and contact Kitsap Public Health at 360-728-2235 when blooms are observed.
