Low levels of toxic algae have been discovered in Salem’s drinking water, prompting officials to issue an advisory that parents should not give tap water to children under 6 years old.
Statesman-Journal Salem residents are being advised not to drink tap water in Salem after low levels of toxins were discovered in the city’s drinking water.
Other affected cities include Turner, Stayton and six other communities, mostly in the Santiam Canyon.
“We’ve had no reports of health impacts so far,” said David Farrer, with the Oregon Health Authority.
“In all these cases, the concentrations have been below the threshold for adults, but above the threshold for younger kids."
How did Salem’s water get contaminated?
Detroit Lake’s water feeds into the North Santiam River, which becomes the Santiam Canyon and City of Salem’s drinking water source.
What are the symptoms of toxic algae contamination?
Drinking water containing cyanotoxins at levels exceeding the national drinking water Health Advisories can put people at risk of various adverse health effects including upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea, as well as liver and kidney damage, according to the advisory.
Officials said to seek medical attention if you or family members are experiencing illness.