09/25/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/25/2024 14:49
The Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) is issuing a health advisory for the west side of Henry's Lake near Island Park, urging caution when recreating in or near the water.
DHW works closely with Eastern Idaho Public Health and the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to identify, respond to, and monitor cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs).
Recent samples from the Henry's Lake showed high amounts of toxin-producing cyanobacteria. The toxins they produce (cyanotoxins) can be harmful to people, pets, and livestock.
When recreating near or in the west side of Henry's Lake, take the following precautions while the advisory is in effect:
Cyanobacteria are a natural part of Idaho's water bodies. When temperatures rise, their populations can bloom and toxic chemical compounds, or cyanotoxins, can be released into the water. Blooms don't all look the same. They may look like mats, foam, spilled paint, or surface scum, and have a foul odor.
Mats can be out of sight on the bottom of the water body. Pets, livestock, and wildlife can get sick or die, within minutes to days after cyanotoxin exposure.
Dogs may become sick first because they are more likely to swim in or drink contaminated water or lick contaminated water or bloom material off their fur. If your pets or livestock have been in the water, immediately wash them with clean water to keep them from licking cyanobacteria off their bodies. Seek veterinary care immediately if your pets or livestock seem sick after going in or drinking the water.
For more information about cyanoHABs, visit DEQ's website at www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/cyanobacteria-harmful-algal- blooms/ or DHW's website at www.gethealthy.dhw.idaho.gov/recreational-water-health-advisories. The public will be notified once the advisory is lifted.