The Nez Perce Tribe is warning people not to swim in Winchester Lake. Recent water samples there showed high amounts of cyanobacteria. In large quantities, it can be harmful to people, pets, and livestock Cyanobacteria is naturally in the water, but when the temperature rises, the populations can bloom, releasing toxic chemical compounds.
Not all blooms look the same. Some look like mats, foam, spilled paint, or surface scum. They can also smell foul.
The warning says do not: swim, wade, or make any contact with the water. Make sure no one drinks the water. Boiling the water will not remove the toxins and will actually increase the risk of becoming sick.
If you eat fish from the water, be sure to clean it off with uncontaminated water, then fillet the fish, remove all fat, skin, and internal organs before cooking.
If your pets and livestock come in contact with the water, be sure to clean their skin and fur with clean water immediately. Dog fur can collect and concentrate cyanobacterial cells in the water, giving them a concentrated dose when they lick their fur after swimming.
If you touch the water, you can get a rash, hives, red eyes, wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath. If you swallow it, you can have stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, muscle weakness, and dizziness.
If you think you may have been exposed to cyanobacteria and you’re having symptoms, consult your healthcare provider, or call the poison center. Their number is 1-800-222-1222.
