Peterborough health unit monitoring lakes for blue-green algae

The health unit serving the Peterborough area is advising residents to protect themselves and their pets from blue-green algae blooms on area lakes.

Peterborough Public Health says although there have been no confirmed reports of blue-green algae on lakes so far this summer, officials advise reporting a bloom if found. The health unit serves Peterborough, Peterborough County, Curve Lake First Nation and Hiawatha First Nation.

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are a type of bacteria known for quickly reproducing and collecting to form large, highly visible blooms — both on the surface of water as a scum, or on a lake bottom as a mat.

The blooms are smelly and some species can also release poisons called cyanobacterial toxins, when the cells that make up the bloom rupture or die, the health unit advises.

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The health unit says the toxins, if ingested, can cause headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or diarrhea. Long-term consumption of water containing high levels of cyanobacterial toxins may cause neurological or liver problems.

Some people may develop a mild skin rash or eye irritation even if there is no toxin produced by a bloom.

For farm animals and pets, consuming large quantities of heavily contaminated water may result in sickness or death.

“It can be tricky even for experts to identify blue-green algae, so it’s important for residents to familiarize themselves with the different categories on our website should they suspect a bloom in their area,” said Wanda Tonus, public health inspector.

“We want to enjoy our lakes during the warm months, and being aware of blue-green algae is another way to protect ourselves and our pets.”

To report a blue-green algae bloom, residents can contact the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks at 1-866-MOETIPS (663-8477). The ministry — with the assistance of the health unit — will investigate reports of blue-green algae.

The health unit has more information on blue-green algae and precautions to take before consuming water or swimming where there has been a bloom on its website.

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