The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit has announced the discovery of a blue-green algae bloom in Sand Lake near Kearney, Ontario.
The bloom has been confirmed to produce toxins and can cause skin irritation, and if swallowed, cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Residents of the lake might be affected depending on their closeness to the bloom, the size of the lake, wind direction, water flow, and other environmental conditions that cannot be predicted or controlled. Due to the many factors involved, government authorities are unable to determine where and when there are no toxins. Users are advised to exercise their judgment before using the water.
If you live near where a bloom was detected or where a bloom is visible, follow these safety measures:
- Do not use the water. This includes drinking, cooking, bathing, and brushing teeth. Note: Using a private water system or boiling the water will not destroy the toxins.
- Do not swim and avoid water sports when a bloom is present.
- If skin contact does occur, wash with soap and water then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae.
- Limit the amount of fish flesh you eat. Some toxins can build up in fish and shellfish. Do not eat the liver, kidneys and other organs. Be careful not to cut the organs when filleting.
- The Health Unit has not closed the beaches, but rather advises individuals that they need to take caution in the area.
