Blue-Green Algae
Nebraska has issued health alerts for two lakes because of toxic blue-green algae blooms. Fremont Lake No. 20 and Carter Lake near Omaha were the only lakes among 37 that were sampled to test out above the state threshold.
People can use the lakes that are under alert for the algae. But people should not have full-body contact with the water and they should not swallow it.
Drinking toxin-tainted water can cause vomiting, diarrhea, headache, muscle pain, paralysis, respiratory failure and, rarely, even death. Pets and livestock are especially vulnerable. Swimming in toxin-tainted but otherwise clear water can cause rashes, hives, runny nose, irritated eyes and throat irritation.
May 15, 2007 6:51 AM | Category: Cleanup