MIDLAND — Beach goers and visitors to Little Lake Park in the Town of Midland are being cautioned about a potential blue-green algae bloom.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit says illness can result from exposure to blue-green algae, whether for drinking, swimming, bathing, cooking, washing or through eating fish caught from the lake. Persons are being advised not to use the water for drinking or food preparation, including infant formula. Safe water sources include municipal water, bottled water or a well that is not affected by lake water.

Swimming and other water sport activities should also be avoided in areas where algae is visible. As well, do not allow pets or livestock to drink or swim in the water where an algae bloom is visible.

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks will be collecting water samples that will be analyzed to confirm if a bloom is present. Because wind and water currents can change the location of algae blooms, the caution is being issued around the entire lake. Blooms may make the water look bluish-green, or like green pea soup or turquoise paint.

Blue-green algae are capable of producing toxins that can be harmful to humans and animals. Boiling the water will not destroy the toxins, and home treatment systems should not be relied on.

Symptoms from consuming toxins from a blue-green algae bloom can include headaches, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and can be more serious if water is swallowed in large quantities.

To learn more about blue-green algae visit the health unit website at www.simcoemuskokahealth.org, or call Health Connection weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.

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