Three dogs die after being exposed to toxic blue-green algae in California's Lake Chabot.
Natural organisms are present in most lakes.Conditions such as low water levels, limited water circulation, increased heat and light, and other factors can cause cyanobacteria to bloom and release toxins.The most common toxins are Anatoxin-A and Microcystin.The scientists don't know what causes thebacteria to become toxic.
The Park District had never before seen toxic blooms in its lakes, but in the year of the dog, there were three.The first and third toxic blooms were in Oakland, both of which resulted in the lake being closed for nine weeks over the summer and fall.
According to the California Department of Public Health, exposure to toxic algae, either through ingestion or skin contact, can cause skin and eye irritation, allergic reactions, gastrointestinal problems or even death.Several dog deaths around the state have been attributed to toxic algae poisoning.
Cold temperatures and rainstorms can speed up the dispersal of blooms, but they usually run their course in a week or two.GreenClean was used by the Park District to control the lake's algae.It is safe for water to be used for drinking, swimming, and fishing.The District only used the chemical in the lake because it is large.The East Bay Municipal Utility District has jurisdiction over the water in Lake Chabot.
Swimming by dogs or people is not allowed at the lake.There are a number of signs at the lake that warn visitors to stay out of the water and to wash their skin with tap water.The guts of fish should be thrown in the water.
There is a bloom on the water when conditions are right.These blooms can be green, blue-green, white, or brown, and may look like a floating layer of scum or paint.They can have an unpleasant smell.In the summer and early fall, blooms can occur at any time.
The District monitors its lakes for blooms and toxins.Paying attention to the signs in the parks is the best way to avoid exposure.There are many types of cyanobacteria.It's not known when and why they begin to make toxins.Sometimes the presence of cyanobacteria does not mean toxins are present.Water samples are tested in the lab for toxins.If blooms begin to produce toxins, always use your best judgement.
Skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion are some of the ways in which toxins can be exposed.Acute exposure symptoms include allergic reaction, eye, nose, mouth, or throat irritation.Exposure to toxins can have long-term effects.If you think you or your child have been exposed to toxins from cyanobacteria, seek medical attention immediately.
The large amount of water that dogs ingest while swimming makes them more susceptible to exposure to cyanobacteria.If your dog comes in contact with a bloom, you should rinse them off immediately so they don't have thebacteria on their fur.If any symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately.
All blooms are closely monitored by the District.Specific signs are posted if toxins are detected, based on the guidance from the Water Board.There is a chance that a lake will be closed to dogs before it is open to swimming.Once the toxins have dissipated, the district works with the local health departments to determine if a lake is safe to reopen.
When the lake is safe for humans to swim, an advisory sign is posted.When an advisory is posted, make sure to keep your pets away from the water and rinse off as soon as possible.There are scums and mats of cyanobacteria.Humans are more likely to get sick when a lake is closed.Avoid contact with the water if you see a Closure posting.
Yes!Toxic levels in fish from our lakes have been shown to be acceptable for fish consumption.You should wash your hands after handling fish or wet equipment.It's a good idea to wash fish with tap or bottled water.
Many steps have been taken by the District to help manage blooms.A few of the techniques used include, application of coagulants to reduce available nutrients and Hydrogen Peroxide based algaecides to kill cyanobacteria, physical removal of filamentous algae to increases the effectiveness of other treatments, and long-term maintenance solutions such as dredge and oxygenation to enhance
It is important to look for signs at the lake or on the website that have recommendations on them.If you see a bloom, keep pets away from the water and stay out of areas with foam, scum, or mats of algae.Dogs should not drink from the water.Do not drink or cook with it.The toxins can persist even if you boil it.
If you or your pet are exposed to cyanobacteria, rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible.Seek medical attention if you have any unusual symptoms.