Skip to content

Blue-green algae bloom found on Bass Lake

'Do not drink the water and avoid activities that involve direct contact with it,' says public health inspector
Blue green algae
File photo shows close up photo of blue green algae floating on a lake.

NEWS RELEASE
ALGOMA PUBLIC HEALTH
*************************
Algoma Public Health is advising residents and visitors of a confirmed blue-green algae bloom (cyanobacteria) on Bass Lake in Blind River. Laboratory results from a water sample submitted on Dec. 5, 2017 to the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change confirmed the presence of blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae are naturally present in ponds, lakes and streams but can quickly increase in numbers to form a scum called a bloom when water is shallow, slow moving and warm. Blooms most commonly occur in late summer and early fall.

Toxins produced by certain forms of blue-green algae can affect your health in two ways.

Residents drawing their water supply from Bass Lake should be advised that skin contact with the algae through washing can cause itchy, irritated eyes and skin.

Drinking water contaminated with the toxins can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Liver or nervous system disease can also develop if toxins are consumed over a long period of time.

“You can protect your health and that of your family, friends and pets during a blue-green algae bloom,” says Paula Gray, public health inspector with Algoma Public Health. “Do not drink the water and avoid activities that involve direct contact with it, such as showering.”

As a precautionary measure, Algoma Public Health recommends that residents:

  • Not drink, bathe or shower with the water, even water that passes through a treatment system since these systems are not capable of removing the toxins.
  • Not use bleach to treat water as this can release toxins from the algae and will not make the water safe for drinking or cooking.
  • Not eat fish caught during a blue-green algae bloom.
  • Use alternative water sources such as bottled water or water obtained from a safe water supply.
  • Restrict pet and livestock access to the water

Learn more about blue-green algae.

*************************

 


What's next?


If you would like to apply to become a Verified reader Verified Commenter, please fill out this form.