07/19/2023
OHA has issued a recreational use health advisory for the southern portion of Upper Klamath Lake, from Howards Bay south to the Link River Dam in Klamath County, due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom.
The major risk of exposure is from ingesting water, and activities that generate sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins. Avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing.
Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure to a bloom because of their size and levels of activity — this is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.
People may experience symptoms similar to food poisoning within 24 hours, such as diarrhea, dizziness and vomiting. Dogs and other pets may experience extreme illness and possibly death within minutes to hours of exposure.
It’s best to stay out of water that looks foamy, scummy, thick like pea-green or blue-green paint, or has brownish-red mats present. Other blooms may appear dark green or as a black slimy mat, or mats along the shore.
Remember, “When in doubt, stay out!”
To learn more, read our news release: https://ow.ly/QzVk50P1Tzk
