A bloom of toxin producing blue-green algae has been detected in Lake Nipissing.
The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is advising residents they found the bloom along the South Shore in Callander.
Anyone in or near that area is asked to avoid swimming or taking part in other water sport activities. They add if you use a private water system, do not use water from the lake for drinking, cooking and bathing.
Boiling the water will not destroy the toxins either. The bloom produces toxins which can irritate the skin and can cause sickness.
At a high enough level the toxins may cause liver and nervous system damage. If you do come into contact with the bloom, wash your skin with soap and water to remove the algae.
The toxins can also produce a type of bacteria that gets into the tissues of fish and shellfish. The Health Unit advises against eating any fish caught in this area at this time.
The warning is effective immediately and there is no set timeline for when the toxins will be gone. They could stay in the water for up to three weeks even after the algae bloom is gone.
You can find out more about blue-green algae, at myhealthunit.ca or call the Health Unit at 705-474-1400, ext. 2400 or 1-800-563-2808.
