Kern County Public Health warns of potential harmful algae blooms in Lake Isabella

Kern County Public Health is advising those who use Lake Isabella for recreational activities, such as boating and dog owners, to be cautious and look out for signs of active algae blooms. Recent water samples from 17 locations in the lake showed potentially harmful blue-green cyanotoxin algae in the Hanning Flat area at the cautionary level, the lowest of three advisory levels.

According to Public Health officials, cyanobacteria can produce toxins that can be harmful to people, pets, livestock, and wildlife. Children and dogs are at a higher risk of exposure due to their smaller body size. Symptoms of cyanobacteria toxins include eye irritation, skin rash, mouth ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea, and flu-like symptoms.

Health advisory signs have been posted around the lake to warn people to be careful when using the water. In addition to cautionary signs, officials have released guidelines to protect individuals from harmful algal blooms, such as following posted advisories, staying away from algae and scum in the water, watching children and pets closely, avoiding letting pets or other animals go into the water or consume algae, and washing oneself, family members, and pets with clean water after water activities. If fishing, it is advised to dispose of fish guts and clean fillets with tap water or bottled water before cooking.

For more information on how to stay safe when using Lake Isabella, visit Kern Public Health’s website.