Health advisory issued for Fernan Lake

A public health advisory was issued Friday for Fernan Lake. Recent water sampling by the Department of Environmental Quality indicates the presence of cyanobacteria, also known as a harmful algal bloom, or HAB, in the water.

"The public should take precaution throughout the lake as HABs can spread and move with wind and water traffic," said a joint news release from the DEQ and state and local public health agencies.

Private domestic water system owners utilizing the lake as a drinking water source are cautioned that potentially present toxins cannot be removed by boiling or filtering the water. If contact — swimming, bathing or showering — has been made with water containing a HAB, it is recommended to wash off with fresh water.

If people choose to eat fish from the lake, it is recommended that they remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, since toxins are more likely to collect in those tissues.

Symptoms of exposure to HABs vary according to exposure. Symptoms include rashes, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing and/or wheezing. Severe symptoms affecting the liver and nervous system may result from ingestion of the water. If symptoms persist, consult your health care provider or veterinarian in the case of pet exposure.

Cyanobacteria are a natural part of Idaho’s water bodies. When temperatures rise, populations bloom and toxic chemical compounds, cyanotoxins, can be released into the water. Caution should be taken anywhere the water appears discolored or murky as HABs can spread or move with wind and water currents. The physical appearance of these blooms can vary, presenting as discolored water, streaks or globs of scum and can cause thick, green mats along shorelines.

Pets, children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems are most at-risk of harm.

The public is urged to use caution when recreating in or near the water at Fernan Lake if the appearance of a HAB is present.

Info: www.deq.idaho.gov