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http://www.omniture.com --> Email Story to a Friend July 1, 2006 Blue-Green Algae: A Primer WHAT: Anabaena flos-aquae, a blue-green algae found naturally in most standing water bodies during summer months. BLOOMS: Blooms are rapid build-ups of algae that cause a blue-green or fluorescent hue to the water. Blooms usually are triggered by warm, stagnant water rich with nutrients. The algae contain vacuoles that allow them to float, and wind can increase concentrations near shorelines. TOXINS: The algae can produce two toxins, Anatoxin-a and Anatoxin-a (s). Both can result in death, but they are more regularly associated with rashes, numbness and dizziness. SAFETY THRESHOLDS: In Oregon, health advisories are issued when algae levels reach 100,000 cells per milliliter of lake water. MOST RECENT BLOOM: Tests confirm high concentrations in portions of Lost Creek Lake, while some areas have already experienced a dieoff. All lake water there likely has some concentration of the algae. Facilities are open, but visitors are recommended not to enter the water at least through the Fourth of July. ADVISORIES: Health officials recommend no contact with algae-bloom water for people or pets. If there is contact, wash thoroughly with soap and water. Boiling the water does not remove the toxins, so it should not be used for drinking or cooking. Eating fish during a bloom also can pose a health risk. Shoreline activities are considered safe. SYMPTOMS: Anatoxin-a is a potentially potent neurotoxin that can cause death within minutes or up to three or four hours later if ingested in high enough quantities. Symptoms include muscle tremors, convulsions, paralysis and respiratory problems. Also can cause skin rashes from contact. Anatoxin-a (s) is mostly linked to animals, causing them to salivate, urinate or defecate excessively and experience respiratory problems that can lead to death. Symptoms normally surface within minutes or hours. If you swam in a tainted lake two weeks ago and didn't get sick, you probably won't. TREATMENT: It is best to remove the toxins by using charcoal and treat for shock and liver failure. Fluids should be given to treat dehydration. LEARN MORE: Visit the Oregon Department of Human Services' Environmental Toxicology Program Web site at " target="_blank">http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/envtox/maadvisories.shtml. Advertisement s Mail Tribune Home | Local News | Sports | Business | Obituaries | Life | Opinion AP News | Archives | Site Map | Community | Classified Copyright © 1997-2006 Mail Tribune, Inc. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | Website Feedback www.bingo.com Home Security Systems Trunks, Footlocker Custom Build Computers Discount Hotel Reservations --> online casinos news Ashley Furniture HomeStore Send Flowers California Casinos GMAT Prep Windermere Van Vleet Sports Equipment Entertainment Guide --> Online Casino Fundraisers Sudoku Online Casinos Canada Online Casino Reviews