Blue-Green Cyanobacteria Alert: Protect Yourself from Harmful Algal Blooms at Lake Isabella

Kern County Public Health is advising those who use Lake Isabella for recreational activities to exercise caution and be on the lookout for signs of active algae blooms. Recent water samples from 17 locations in the lake showed potentially harmful blue-green cyanotoxin algae in the Hanning Flat area at the cautionary level, which is the lowest of three advisory levels.

According to Public Health officials, cyanobacteria can produce toxins that can be harmful to people, pets, livestock, and wildlife. Children and dogs are particularly vulnerable due to their smaller body size. Symptoms of cyanobacteria toxins include eye irritation, skin rash, mouth ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea, and flu-like symptoms.

To protect individuals from harmful algal blooms, health advisory signs have been posted around the lake warning people to be cautious when using the water. Additionally, officials have released guidelines for safe use of Lake Isabella such as following posted advisories