The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is advising that a harmful bloom of blue-green algae has been spotted on Harris Lake in McDougall Township.
Such algae is capable of producing toxins that can irritate the skin and if swallowed, cause diarrhea and vomiting. If you live near where a bloom was identified or where it is visible, do not use the water for either drinking, cooking, bathing, or brushing your teeth.
Even using a private water system of boiling the water will not destroy the toxins. You should also be careful not to swim or play any water sports if a bloom is present. If your skin does come in contact, the best practice is to wash with soap and then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove the algae.
The Health Unit also advises that you limit the amount offish you eat, as some toxins can build up in fish and shellfish.
Even though beaches have not been closed, residents are still advised to take caution in the area.
For more information click here or call the Health Unit at 705-474-1400 ext. 5400 or 1-800-563-2808.