The Oregon Health Authority is expanding a health advisory after preliminary test results show blue-green algae covering a stretch of the Willamette River flowing through downtown Portland is a toxic species. Officials with OHA’s Public Health Division say the advisory, first issued September 16 for the stretch of the Willamette between the south end of Ross Island and the Fremont Bridge, now extends from Ross Island downriver to the south end of Sauvie Island. Public health officials recommend that people avoid all contact with Willamette River water in this stretch of the river, and that pets be kept away from the water as well. This includes avoiding swallowing or inhaling water droplets, and avoiding skin contact. Drinking water directly from this stretch of the Willamette is especially dangerous at this time. The public will be alerted when the concern no longer exists.
Posted on: Fri, 19 Sep 2014 22:56:51 +0000