Blue-green algae has been confirmed in more areas of Lake Nipissing.

The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit says a harmful algae bloom has found in Campbell’s Bay in Patterson Township and Simpson’s Bay in Nipissing.

Last week officials said a bloom had been found at Marathon Beach in North Bay and Centennial Park Beach in Callander.

They say the toxins in harmful algae can irritate the skin and if swallowed, cause diarrhea and vomiting.

The Health Unit advises that if you are 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 where 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.

More information about harmful algae can be found online at myhealthunit.ca/algae or by calling the Health Unit at 705-474-1400, ext. 5400 or 1-800-563-2808.

 

Photo courtesy Municipality of Callander on Facebook

Filed under: blue-green-algae, lake-nipissing