Health officials issue blue-green algae watch for Lake Shawnee

Alyssa Storm
·3 min read

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Spring is in full bloom, and with that comes unwanted algae in lakes across Kansas.

Friday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) along with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) issued a public health advisory due to blue-green algae.

There are active advisories on two Kansas lakes. A blue-green algae warning is being issued for Harvey County East Lake in Harvey County, according to a news release from the KDHE. Lake Shawnee in Shawnee County was added to the list as an active advisory watch for blue-green algae.

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According to the KDHE, a harmful algal bloom (HAB) could look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water. The color may appear blue, bright green, brown or red. HAB’s can form quickly, so the KDHE encourages people and pets to avoid the water if it appears suspicious. The KDHE said in the release that pets may become seriously ill or die if an animal swims in or drinks the affected water or eats dried algae along the shore.

HAB toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation or aerosols and skin contact, according to the KDHE. HAB symptoms vary depending on the kind of exposure, but some may include the following: rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat and headache.

If you believe you or a pet has come in contact with the algae, rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Any suspected HAB-related health incidents should be reported to the KDHE.

The KDHE breaks down what each of the status’s mean below:

A Hazard status indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.

  • It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.

  • In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.

  • When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.

A Warning status indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

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When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.

  • Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.

  • Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.

  • Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.

  • Water contact should be avoided.

  • Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.

  • Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.

  • If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.

  • Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

A Watch status means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Signage should be posted at all public access locations.

  • Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.

  • Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.

  • Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.

  • Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.

  • Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

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