Oregon Public Health Issues Blue-Green Algae Advisories: Toxic to Dogs & People

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Health advisories for blue-green algae levels have been issued for the following bodies of water in Oregon:

  • No official advisories are in place at this time. 2.7.12
  • The Umpqua River near Elkton is not under an official HABS advisory, but this area has a history of harmful algae blooms, so pet owners should exercise caution.

Note: If a body of water that was previously under an advisory does not appear on this list, the advisory has been lifted. Despite the cold weather, advisories can still remain in place.

Children and pets are particularly susceptible to this toxin

Monitoring of the above listed bodies of water has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. These algae levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals. Drinking water from these bodies of water is especially dangerous. Oregon Public Health officials advise campers and other visitors that toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water with camping-style filters.

Oregon Public Health recommends that people who choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Additionally, public health officials advise that people should not eat crayfish or freshwater shellfish harvested from these bodies of water while this advisory is in effect.

Hazard for both humans and pets

Exposure to toxins can produce symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness that can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting should also receive medical attention if they persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

Dogs have become very sick and even died after swimming in and swallowing water affected
by toxic algae. If you find thick, brightly colored foam or scum at a lake, pond or river, don’t let your pet drink or swim in the water.

If your dog goes into the water:

  • Don’t let your pet lick its fur
  • Wash your pet with clean water as soon as possible
  • If your dog has symptoms such as drooling, weakness, vomiting, staggering and convulsions after being in bloom-affected water, call your veterinarian immediately

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit these bodies of water and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, catch-and-release fishing and bird watching. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray, which could lead to inhalation risk.

For more information, contact the Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program at (971) 673-0400.

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