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Harmful algal bloom found in Jordan River. Pets and people are warned to stay out of the water.

Salt Lake County Health Department officials are warning people not to swim in the river, and to take precautions during other activities.

(Trent Nelson | The Salt Lake Tribune) A boat launch along the Jordan River Parkway Trail near the Millcreek Trailhead in Murray. Salt Lake County health officials say harmful algal bloom has affected the Jordan River between 9000 South and the Utah County/Salt Lake County line — but blooms have been found as far north as 3000 South.

The Salt Lake County Health Department has issued a warning about harmful algae found in the Jordan River in the south end of the county.

As of Thursday afternoon, a news release from the department said tests were pending to determine the amount of toxins in the water, but officials recommend people enjoying water recreation take precautions:

  • Don’t touch visible algae.
  • Don’t swim in the river or its canals.
  • Thoroughly clean fish caught in the river.
  • Keep animals away from the water.
  • Don’t drink the water.

    • People who are exposed to the harmful algae may experience headaches, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and skin irritation, health officials said.

    The toxic bloom is an extension of one in Utah Lake, the news release says, and affects Salt Lake County’s portion of the river from the southern county line to about 9000 South, though harmful algae has been found in canals as far north as 3000 South.

    “Officials urge caution throughout the entire river and canal system, as algae and toxin levels can change rapidly,” the release says.

    Salt Lake County’s health department and the Utah Department of Environmental Quality plan to keep monitoring the algae and updating their advisory based on its conditions.