A caution advisory was issued at a popular Pierce County lake after a bloom of toxic algae was reported Thursday, according to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.
The algae bloom was spotted in the northeast area of Lake Tapps, along the east shore of Tapps Island. The health department is recommending that people and pets stay away from the area with algae until further notice.
The lake should be safe to swim and waterski in if you don’t see any algae in the area, but health officials say wind can move the bloom to other parts of the lake.
A sample of the algae bloom was sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Toxic algae, also called cyanobacteria or blue-green algae, produce toxins that may kill pets and other animals. The health department says people can become seriously ill or die from toxic algae. Skin contact can cause irritation or a rash.
Symptoms of swallowing toxic algae water include muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea.
The health department says it is “extremely important” that anyone who swallows a large amount of toxic algae water to seek medical attention.
