NIXON — The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe has issued a water quality advisory for Pyramid Lake. The tribe would like notify the public to take proper precautions to avoid negative symptoms.

Several recent reports of “swimmers itch” have occurred as a result of swimming or wading in shallow areas with very warm water temperatures. Individuals with compromised immune systems, other health issues and children may want to avoid water contact at warm and shallow beaches — particularly North Nets, South Nets and Long Beach.

An advisory is a warning to swimmers but it is not a beach closure and all public beaches at Pyramid Lake remain open. During an advisory, a beach is posted with warning signs when the water contains levels of bacteria that indicate there may be an increased risk of developing minor skin, eye, ear, nose and throat infections and stomach disorders. Anyone who chooses to swim during an advisory is asked to avoid dunking their head in, or swallowing the water.

Anyone swimming should take additional precautions, including drying off vigorously with a towel, showering shortly after swimming and avoiding the ingestion of lake water. If visitors to Pyramid Lake do experience symptoms of “swimmers itch” they are encouraged to report it to the tribe by calling 888-225-2668.