Toxic algae warning upgraded to 'danger' at Lake San Antonio

July 03--The Monterey County Health Department upgraded its algae warning for Lake San Antonio South Shore to "danger" on Saturday, noting the presence of harmful algal blooms in the water.

The health department is advising swimmers and others who are visiting the lake to be cautious in areas where harmful algae is in the water.

The notice gives the following warnings:

-- While you can swim in the water, stay away from algae and scum.

-- Don't use the water for cooking.

-- Clean fish with bottled water and throw away the guts.

-- Don't let pets and other animals go into or drink the water or eat scum on the shore.

-- Don't eat shellfish from affected water.

The health department also notified water consumers on the San Antonio Lake Park South Shore Water System of possible water contamination because of the algae bloom, advising that bottled water should be used for all drinking and cooking.

"There is currently an investigation as to the quality of the water due to the risk of contamination," a health department news release said.

The notice will remain in effect until the issue is resolved and health department officials give clearance.

Similar algae blooms are cropping up all over California. Two dogs died last week after swimming in an affected pond in Napa County. Pets are the most common victims of blue-green algae poisoning because they tend to drink water while swimming, according to Napa County Public Health Officer Karen Relucio.

The California Department of Public Health says blue-green algae blooms occur most often in warmer months, and notes that dogs as well as sea otters have died as a result of toxic algae in past years.

Tribune reporter Lucas Clark and Sacramento Bee reporter Don Sweeney contributed to this story.

Gabby Ferreira: 805-781-7858, @Its_GabbyF

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