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

                     Cheryl Walters, Umpqua National Forest (541) 957-3227

October 5, 2006

Public Health Advisory Issued For Diamond Lake

A health advisory prompted by high algae levels found in Diamond Lake, located 80 miles from Roseburg, Oregon was issued to be effective Friday, October 6^th, 2006, by the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS), the Umpqua National Forest and the Douglas County Health Department.

“Water sampling by the Umpqua National Forest has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae Anabaena species that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals,” said Dave Stone, toxicologist with the Oregon DHS.

These 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 Diamond Lake is especially dangerous.   The toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering, or treating water.

On September 14, 2006, Diamond Lake was treated with a chemical (rotenone) to eradicate an invasive fish species, tui chub, from the lake.  The rotenone treatment killed all fish in the lake and it is recommended that no dead fish from the lake be eaten.

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, and 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 Diamond Lake and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, and bird watching.

For local information contact the Diamond Lake Ranger District office at (541) 498-2531 orwww.fs.fed.us/r6/umpqua/  

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

or call David Bussen or Terry Westfall, Douglas County Health and Social Services at (541) 464-3820.

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