Clark County Public Health announced a danger advisory for Vancouver Lake due to increased levels of cyanotoxins in the water on Wednesday.
Samples from the lake taken on Monday showed cyanotoxins above the recommended levels by the Washington Department of Health, according to a news release.
The public is advised to avoid all recreation in the lake, including swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, using motorized boats, water skiing and fishing. This includes pets as well, the release stated.
Blooms of cyanobacteria, otherwise known as blue-green algae, were found at the swim beach, flushing channel and the south entrance by Shillapoo Wildlife area.
“Blue-green algae can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled or contact skin,” stated the release. “Inhaled bacteria or toxins can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Skin contact can lead to rash, itching, blisters and eye irritation.”
In addition, if someone swallows water with cyanotoxins, symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, numbness of the lips, tingling in fingers and toes, and dizziness, stated the release. The toxins can be fatal to pets if ingested, inhaled or if they come in contact with the water.
Since June 1, public health has monitored cyanobacteria blooms at Vancouver Lake. The county will test weekly water samples while blooms are present, the release states. Signs posted around the lake will be updated as conditions change.
Vancouver Lake Regional Park will remain open. The water in public park restrooms and shelters is not affected by lake water and remains safe to drink, states the release.
Additional warning advisories remain in effect for Lacamas and Round Lake because of cyanotoxins from blue-green algae.
The county advises against swimming and water skiing in all areas of the lake. Avoid algae when kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing, the release stated.
For more information about Public Health advisories, visit clark.wa.gov/public-health/public-beaches.
