PARRY SOUND, ON-The North Bay Parry Sound Health Unit has confirmed that harmful blue-green algae have been spotted in Callander Bay and in Lake Bernard.
Species of these algae are capable of producing toxins that can and induce irritated skin and, if swallowed, diarrhea and vomiting.
Residents around these waters may be affected depending on their closeness to the algae bloom, the size of the lake, wind direction, water flow, and other environmental conditions that can’t be predicted or controlled. With the many factors involved, the government is unable to determine where and when there are no toxins.
Users of these waters are advised to exercise their judgement before using, and if you live near where blooms were detected, make sure to follow the appropriate safety measures.
- Do no use the water, be it for drinking, cooking, bathing, and brushing teeth.
- Using a private water system of boiling 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 the algae.
- Limit the amount of fish you eat as some toxins can build up in fish and shellfish and stay away from the liver, kidneys and other organs.
- Beaches have not been closed, but the health unit is rather advising individuals that they need to take caution in the area.
For more information about the harmful algae, visit the health unit site here.