TOPEKA, Kansas (WIBW) – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a health alert to the public due to blue-green algae.
A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and may be blue, light green, brown or red in color. Blooms can develop quickly; if the water appears suspicious or there is rotting algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away.
These toxins can be absorbed through ingestion, inhalation of aerosols, and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending on the type of exposure, but may include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If you or your pets come into contact with algae, rinse the area with clean, fresh water.
Active hints
warning
- Eagle Lake (Bel Aire), Sedgwick County (increased August 9)
- Collection Pond, Geary County
- East Lake, Harvey County (State)
- King Lake, Lyon County
- Lake Afton, Sedgwick County
- Melvern Outlet River Pond, Osage County
- Melvern Outlet Swimming Pond, Osage County
Regard
- Atchison City Lake #8, Atchison County
- Atchison State Fishing Lake, Atchison County
- Cedar Lake, Johnson County
- Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County (Added August 9)
- Louisburg City Lake, Miami County
- River Pond (Tuttle Creek State Park), Pottawatomie and Riley Counties
- Sabetha City Lake, Nemaha County
Alerts are lifted when cell density and toxin concentrations fall below warning thresholds.
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