Health Advisory Issued for Lost Creek Lake Due to Harmful Algae

Jackson County, Oregon- State health officials issued a recreational use advisory Tuesday for Lost Creek Lake in Jackson County after detecting potentially dangerous levels of cylindrospermopsin, a toxin produced by harmful algae.

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced the advisory following the detection of the toxin at levels that exceed its recreational use value. Cyanobacteria blooms—commonly referred to as harmful algae blooms—occur naturally in Oregon waterways, particularly during warm weather. These blooms can produce toxins that pose serious health risks to people, pets and other animals.

OHA advises people to avoid swimming or engaging in high-speed water activities such as power boating or water skiing in areas where blooms are visible, due to the risk of ingesting contaminated water. Although the toxins are not absorbed through the skin, individuals with sensitivities may experience red, puffy rashes after exposure.

While water contact should be limited in affected areas, OHA emphasized that Lost Creek Lake remains open for activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, bird watching, canoeing and kayaking. Low-speed boating is considered safe as long as it does not generate excessive spray, which could lead to the inhalation or swallowing of cyanotoxins.

Drinking Water Warning

Officials cautioned that drinking untreated water from the lake is especially dangerous. Boiling, filtering or treating lake water with camping-style purification systems does not remove the toxins. However, drinking water systems at public parks and campgrounds around Lost Creek Lake are supplied by groundwater wells, which are not affected by the bloom and are regulated to meet public safety standards.

OHA recommends that private residences that draw water directly from the lake use an alternative water source. Many home treatment systems are not effective in removing cyanotoxins.

Increased Risk for Children and Pets

Children and pets are particularly vulnerable to exposure due to their size and behaviors. Children’s play activities and tendency to swallow water can increase their risk, while dogs may become seriously ill or even die after drinking contaminated water or licking toxins from their fur.

Dogs can also suffer from water intoxication after ingesting large volumes of water while playing or retrieving in the lake, a condition that can mimic symptoms of cyanotoxin exposure and may be fatal. Symptoms in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, and difficulty walking.

Symptoms and Treatment

Exposure to cyanotoxins in humans may result in a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, skin rashes, numbness, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Medical attention may be required depending on the severity of symptoms.

Individuals experiencing symptoms after water exposure should contact their healthcare provider. Pet owners should seek immediate veterinary care if their animals show signs of illness.

Fishing Precautions

Fish caught from areas with visible algae blooms may pose unknown health risks. OHA recommends not consuming fish from these areas. If fish are consumed, fat, skin, and organs should be removed before cooking, as toxins tend to accumulate in these parts. Fillets should be rinsed thoroughly with clean water.

To report a bloom, illness, or for additional information, contact the Oregon Health Authority at 971-673-0482 or visit the OHA’s Harmful Algae Blooms website.