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Health and Fitness
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Health and Fitness
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Kansas Issues Public Health Advisory Over Harmful Algal Blooms

Public Health Advisory Issued in Kansas Amid Concerns Over Harmful Algal Blooms

In a move to protect residents and visitors from potential health risks, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a public health advisory for several bodies of water across the state. The advisory, announced recently, highlights the presence of harmful algal blooms, commonly known as blue-green algae, which have been detected in elevated levels in multiple lakes and reservoirs. This natural phenomenon, exacerbated by warm weather and nutrient-rich waters, can produce toxins that pose serious threats to human and animal health. Officials are urging caution, particularly for those engaging in recreational activities such as swimming, boating, or fishing in affected areas.

The advisory specifically targets a list of lakes where testing has confirmed the presence of cyanotoxins, harmful substances released by the algae. Among the most prominently mentioned are Cheney Reservoir in south-central Kansas, which is a popular spot for water sports and fishing, and Milford Lake in the northeastern part of the state, known for its expansive shoreline and camping facilities. Other bodies of water under watch include Perry Lake, Tuttle Creek Lake, and several smaller ponds and reservoirs scattered throughout rural counties. The KDHE's monitoring program, which involves regular water sampling and laboratory analysis, detected toxin levels exceeding safe thresholds set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These thresholds are designed to prevent exposure to microcystins and other cyanotoxins that can cause a range of symptoms in humans, from skin irritation and gastrointestinal distress to more severe liver and neurological damage in cases of high exposure.

Blue-green algae, technically cyanobacteria, thrive in conditions of high temperatures, stagnant water, and nutrient pollution often stemming from agricultural runoff, wastewater discharge, and urban stormwater. Kansas, with its vast agricultural landscape dominated by corn, wheat, and livestock operations, is particularly susceptible to these blooms. Fertilizers rich in phosphorus and nitrogen seep into waterways, fueling the rapid growth of algae. This year's advisory comes amid a summer of above-average temperatures and sporadic heavy rains, creating ideal breeding grounds for the organisms. Experts note that while algal blooms occur annually, their intensity and frequency have been increasing, potentially linked to broader environmental changes such as climate variability and land use patterns.

Health officials are emphasizing the risks not just to humans but also to pets and livestock. Dogs, in particular, are vulnerable because they may drink contaminated water or lick algae off their fur after swimming. Symptoms in animals can include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death if untreated. There have been documented cases in Kansas and neighboring states where pets have succumbed to cyanotoxin poisoning, prompting the advisory to include strong warnings for pet owners. For humans, the dangers are most acute for children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Ingesting water or inhaling aerosols from blooms can lead to acute poisoning, while skin contact might result in rashes or allergic reactions. The KDHE recommends avoiding all contact with water that appears discolored, has a foul odor, or shows visible scum on the surface—classic signs of an active bloom.

To mitigate these risks, the advisory outlines several precautionary measures. Swimming, water skiing, and other direct-contact activities are strongly discouraged in affected areas until further notice. Boaters are advised to avoid creating wakes that could aerosolize toxins, and anglers should clean fish thoroughly, discarding guts which may concentrate toxins. Drinking water from these sources is prohibited, and even treated municipal water supplies are being monitored closely, though no widespread contamination of drinking water has been reported at this time. Local authorities are posting signs at access points to lakes and reservoirs, and some beaches have been temporarily closed to enforce the advisory.

This is not the first time Kansas has faced such challenges. Historical data from the KDHE shows that algal bloom advisories have been issued nearly every summer for the past decade, with peaks during drought years when water levels drop and concentrations rise. In 2022, for instance, over 20 lakes were under similar warnings, leading to temporary shutdowns of recreational facilities and economic impacts on tourism-dependent communities. Local economies around these lakes rely heavily on summer visitors for boating, camping, and fishing, and prolonged advisories can result in lost revenue for businesses like marinas, bait shops, and campgrounds. Community leaders in affected areas, such as those near Cheney Reservoir, have expressed concerns about the recurring nature of these events and are calling for long-term solutions.

In response, state environmental agencies are collaborating with federal partners, including the EPA and the U.S. Geological Survey, to address root causes. Initiatives include promoting best management practices for farmers to reduce nutrient runoff, such as implementing buffer zones along waterways and adopting precision agriculture techniques. Watershed management plans are being updated to include more robust monitoring and early warning systems. Public education campaigns are also underway, with KDHE distributing informational brochures and hosting webinars to inform residents about recognizing algal blooms and reporting suspicious water conditions.

Experts from Kansas State University and other research institutions are studying the ecological dynamics of these blooms. Research indicates that climate change may be amplifying the problem, with warmer water temperatures extending the bloom season and increasing toxin production. Warmer winters and altered precipitation patterns could further exacerbate nutrient loading into lakes. Some studies suggest that invasive species and changes in fish populations might also play a role by disrupting natural balances in aquatic ecosystems.

While the current advisory is precautionary and no widespread illnesses have been reported this season, health officials stress the importance of vigilance. They encourage the public to check the KDHE website for real-time updates on water quality, as conditions can change rapidly with weather shifts. For those experiencing symptoms after potential exposure, immediate medical attention is advised, and reporting to local health departments can help track any outbreaks.

This advisory underscores broader public health and environmental challenges in the Midwest, where water quality issues intersect with agriculture and recreation. As Kansas navigates these ongoing concerns, the focus remains on balancing economic needs with safety, ensuring that residents and visitors can enjoy the state's natural resources without undue risk. Officials remain optimistic that proactive measures and community awareness will minimize impacts, but they acknowledge that addressing the underlying causes will require sustained effort and investment in water infrastructure and conservation practices.

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Read the Full WDAF Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/public-health-advisory-issued-kansas-032110610.html ]