Blue-green algae public health advisories given for Kansas lakes

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued public health advisories due to blue-green algae.

According to a press release from KDHE, a Harmful Algae Bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum, or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown, or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. 

These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols, and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g., direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.

Active Advisories:

Warning:

• Elkhorn Lake, Jackson County
• Frazier Lake, Grant County
• Gathering Pond, Geary County
• Kill Creek Park Lake, Johnson County
• Marion County Lake, Marion County

Watch:

• Atchison City Lake #9, Atchison County 
• Atchison State Fishing Lake, Atchison County
• Jeffrey Energy Make-Up Lake, Pottawatomie County 
• Marion Reservoir, Marion County
• Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County
• Melvern Outlet Swim Pond, Osage County

A warning status indicates that a HAB is expected or present, and a watch status means that a HAB is possible and may be present.

Advisories are lifted when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

If you or your pets come into contact with algae, rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported as soon as possible.

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