Technical Contact:  Dave Stone, DHS  (971) 673-0444

Gary Stevens, Jackson County Environmental Health (541) 774-8206

September 12, 2006

Public health advisory issued for Hyatt Lake

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Hyatt Lake, located about 20 miles east of Ashland, was issued September 12, 2006 by the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS), the Bureau of Land Management, and the Jackson County Health Department.

While water sampling and analysis has not occurred, there is a visible algal bloom consistent with the appearance of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals, said Dave Stone, toxicologist with the Oregon DHS.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals. Drinking water from Hyatt Lake is especially dangerous.   The toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering, or treating water.

DHS strongly recommends that if people choose to eat fish from Hyatt Lake, they should remove all fat, skin, and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Symptoms of numbness, tingling, dizziness and  paralysis 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.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists.  

With proper precautions to avoid water contact, people are encouraged to visit Hyatt Lake and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing and bird watching.

For health information, contact Dave Stone, DHS toxicologist, at (971) 673-0444 or http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/envtox/maadvisories.shtml 

or call Jackson County Health Department at (541) 774-8206.

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