Kootenai County

News Releases Public Health Advisory-Cyanobacteria BloomWaterbodies: Fernan Lake and Northern end of Hayden LakeDate Issued: 8/6/2026Advisory Duration: Through the end of the recreation season (mid/late October) Panhandle Health District (PHD) in collaboration with the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare (IDHW) and Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) have issued public health advisories for Fernan Lake and the upper end of Hayden Lake (see map of advisory area). Recent water sampling indicates the presence of cyanobacteria, also known as a harmful algae bloom (HAB) or blue green algae in Fernan Lake and the north end of Hayden Lake. The public is advised to use caution when recreating at these sites due to the potential presence of cyanotoxins associated with cyanobacteria. The public should use precaution throughout both lakes as HABs can spread and move with wind and water traffic. Idaho’s active HAB advisories are listed here: https://www.gethealthy.dhw.idaho.gov/recreational-water-health-advisories Private domestic water system owners utilizing the lake as a drinking water source are cautioned that potentially present cyanobacteria cannot be removed by boiling or filtering the water. It is recommended to avoid contact with discolored water, surface scums, or areas with visible streaks or mats; and to keep pets and children away from affected water. If contact (swimming, bathing, or showering) has been made with water containing a HAB, it is recommended to wash off with fresh water. If people choose to eat fish from the lake, it is recommended that they remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking, since toxins are more likely to collect in those tissues. Symptoms of exposure to HABs vary according to exposure. Symptoms can include rashes, hives, dia

This notice is displayed on every Idaho county page because it applies statewide. It does not mean the source identified a county-specific case, exposure, closure, or local outbreak in this county.

The Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) is working with local and state partners to investigate a recent increase in illnesses after consumption of unpasteurized (raw) milk. Since May 19, 2026, nearly 60 people have been identified who became ill after consuming raw milk.

This notice is displayed on every Idaho county page because it applies statewide. It does not mean the source identified a county-specific case, exposure, closure, or local outbreak in this county.

The Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) is issuing health advisories for Grasmere Reservoir and the Bruneau Arm of CJ Strike, urging caution when recreating in or near the water. Grasmere Reservoir is about 35 miles south of Bruneau on State Highway 51.