PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department is asking people to stay out of two lakes in the area.
The department has issued toxic algae caution advisories for Tanwax Lake and Wapato Lake.
“When you see algae, don’t swim, wade, waterski, or fish. Keep in mind as wind direction changes, the algae could move elsewhere in the lake. When in doubt, stay out,” the department shared.
Staff will inspect the lakes again next week. If the bloom is gone, the department will leave the advisory in place for two weeks out of an abundance of caution.
What are toxic algae?
Toxic algae, also known as cyanobacteria, occur naturally in lakes. They can produce toxins that make people, pets, and animals sick. Toxic algae can form a scum layer and look like green pea soup. They can also look streaky or form clumps. Algae can have different colors, most often green but also brown, red, and bluish.
What are the symptoms?
See your medical provider if you may have been in water with toxic algae and have any of these symptoms:
- Muscle weakness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
Skin in contact with toxic algae can become irritated or break out in a rash. This is different from Swimmer’s Itch.
How can toxic algae affect my pets?
Pets are at great risk. They have small bodies and are more likely to ingest larger amounts of toxic algae. They may drink water with toxic algae and lick their fur. Take your pet to the vet when it shows any of these symptoms:
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Convulsions
- Difficulty breathing
- General weakness
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