HAYDEN LAKE, Idaho — The Panhandle Health District (PHD), the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) and the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) have issued a public health advisory for the north end of Hayden Lake.
They report that recent water sampling indicates the presence of a harmful algal bloom (HAB) on the northern end of the lake near McLeans Bay.
They recommend that the public take precautions throughout the lake as HABs can spread as wind and water move the algae regularly.
The physical appearance of these blooms can vary. They may present as discolored water, streaks or globs of scum and can also cause thick green mats along lake shorelines.
Pets, children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems are most at risk of harmful exposure.
Symptoms of exposure to HABs will vary. Symptoms may include rashes, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing and shortness of breath.
More severe symptoms affecting the liver and nervous system may result from ingestion of the water.
If contact has been made with HAB-contaminated water, wash thoroughly with fresh water. If symptoms continue, consult your health care provider or veterinarian for pet exposure.
Anyone who owns a domestic water system and uses the lake as a source of drinking water should be aware that the potentially present toxins cannot be removed by boiling or filtering the water.
If people choose to eat fish from the lake, it is recommended to remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking as toxins are more likely to collect in those tissues.
HABs are a natural part of Idaho’s water bodies but when temperatures rise, their populations can bloom and toxins can be released into the water.
Idaho’s active HAB advisories are listed here: https://www.gethealthy.dhw.idaho.gov/recreational-water-health-advisories.
The public is urged to use caution when being in or around the north end of Hayden Lake if the appearance of an HAB is present.
