Vancouver Lake’s swim beach will remain closed after testing showed there are elevated cyanotoxin levels still present at the lake. Clark County Public Health recommends no recreating in the lake.
“Blue-green algae can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled or come into contact with skin. Inhaled bacteria or toxins can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Skin contact can lead to rash, itching, blisters and eye irritation,” according to a Public Health news release.
Public Health has been monitoring cyanobacteria blooms, or blue-green algae, at the lake since June 12. On July 24, Public Health closed the swim beach when toxin rose above recommended threshold levels.
While cyanotoxins remain, E. coli bacteria levels have dropped at the lake, according to testing. One of five test samples collected on Monday registered elevated levels of E. coli, but testing from Tuesday now shows that E. coli levels have dropped below threshold levels.
Water samples will be collected from the lake again next week, and Public Health will update advisories as conditions change. Advisories are posted at the public beaches webpage.
