Health advisory issued for Little Camas Reservoir area

Recent water samples taken from Little Camas Reservoir indicate the presence of Aphanizomenon, or blue-green algae, which can sicken humans and animals that drink or come into contact with water tainted with this algae.

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and Central District Health Department issued a health advisory Monday afternoon involving Little Camas Reservoir.

Located off Highway 20 northeast of Mountain Home, recent water samples taken from the reservoir indicate the presence of Aphanizomenon algae.

Commonly known as blue-green algae, it can produce dangerous toxins that are harmful to people, pets and livestock. Those with liver or kidney damage are at an increased risk of illness, health officials said.

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