KITSAP COUNTY — The Kitsap Public Health District issued a warning on Tuesday after blue-green algae was found in Kitsap Lake. The swimming beach at Kitsap Lake Park has been closed since July 24 due to high levels of E. coli found in the water.
According to a press release, not all algae is dangerous. Blue-green algae differs from other types of algae in that it's known to produce toxins that can kill animals and make people sick, the press release says. Reports of toxic algae have been popping up across Washington.
The Kitsap Public Health District has advised people to stay away from the water and not let their pets near it to reduce the risk of swallowing it or getting it in the mouth, nose or eyes. Also avoid eating fish caught in the water during the blue-green algae bloom, they said.
The county says there are no reported illnesses at this time, but you’re encouraged to contact the Kitsap Health District at (360) 728-2235 should you see any blue-green algae or large amounts of dead fish in the lake, witness sudden sickness or death of a pet, or experience any skin rashes, dizziness, abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting.
Kitsap Public Health says they’ll continue to monitor the lake and send updates as the conditions change.
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Kitsap Public Health District
