Results from water samples taken from Vancouver Lake on Monday revealed cyanotoxins above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health
VANCOUVER – Clark County Public Health has issued a warning advisory at Vancouver Lake due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from harmful algae.
Results from water samples taken from Vancouver Lake on Monday, Aug. 19 revealed cyanotoxins above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health. Warning signs are being placed at public access points at the lake.
Cyanotoxins can be harmful to people, especially young children, and deadly for small pets that drink the water. While the warning advisory is in place, health officials recommend:
- No swimming or water skiing.
- No water contact for animals.
- Avoiding areas of scum when using motorized boats, paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing.
- No drinking lake water.
- Cleaning fish well and discarding organs.
Public Health will continue to monitor Vancouver Lake and, while a bloom is present, take weekly water samples to test toxin levels. Signs will be updated as conditions change.
Vancouver Lake Regional Park remains open. Water in park restrooms and shelters is not affected by lake water and remains safe to drink.
Harmful algal blooms can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled or contact skin. Inhaled bacteria or toxins could cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Skin contact could lead to rash, itching, blisters and eye irritation.
If water with cyanotoxins is accidentally swallowed, symptoms could include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, numbness of the lips, tingling in fingers and toes, and dizziness.
Additional information about harmful algal blooms and current advisories are posted on the Public Health website. To report algal blooms in other bodies of water, visit the Public Health website.
Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.
Also read:
- Stephen Davis brings his message of unity with Turning Point USA presentation in Vancouver
Stephen Davis of Turning Point USA visited Vancouver to share a message of unity and faith with students and families. - Cardinals elect American pope to lead Catholic church
Robert Francis Prevost becomes the first American elected pope, taking the name Leo XIV following a fourth-round conclave vote. - Camas Police arrest robbery suspectCamas Police arrested a 19-year-old Vancouver man following a reported armed robbery early Thursday morning.
- CCSO deputy involved in deadly force incident
A CCSO deputy reported fatally stabbing a DUI suspect during an altercation at the Ridgefield WSP Scale House. - Opinion: Revolution or revival?Nancy Churchill argues that Washington state is ground zero for a Marxist-style revolution but says a cultural revival is possible through personal responsibility and the America First movement.
- WA governor pressed to veto $1.8B piece of Democrats’ tax billGrocers and restaurateurs are urging Gov. Ferguson to veto a surcharge in HB 2081 that they say will raise food prices statewide.
- CCSO makes arrest in attempted kidnapping investigationA 31-year-old Vancouver man has been arrested in connection with an attempted kidnapping involving a teenage girl near NE 149th Street.
