Public Health Advisories for Kansas Lakes Due to Blue-Green Algae, a Grant County Lake Included

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) have issued a public health advisory update due to blue-green algae.

A harmful algal 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. If you, or your dog, 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 at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.

Active Advisories:

Warning

Big Eleven Lake, Wyandotte County
Fossil Lake, Russell County
Frazier Lake, Grant County (Added October 13)
Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County
Lake Afton, Sedgwick County
Lovewell Lake, Jewell County
South Lake (Overland Park), Johnson County

Watch
Amesbury Lake, Johnson County
Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County

Lifted
Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County (Lifted October 13)
Winfield City Lake, Cowley County (Lifted October 13)