BOYLE – Skeleton Lake residents should be on the lookout for blue-green algae blooms said Alberta Health Services (AHS), following the detection of the algae, also known as cyanobacteria, in parts of the lake.
In a June 4 release a spokesperson for AHS advised the residents, as well as visitors, to be cautious of the blooms, and to avoid all contact with them. If contact occurs, wash the area with tap water as soon as possible.
Do not swim, wade, or allow pets to do either in any areas where the bacteria are visible, and do not feed fish or fish trimmings from the lake to pets, as the fish can store the toxins from the bacteria in their liver. Humans can safely consume fish fillets from the lake, however. Contaminated water can also not be used to water edible plants, including cabbage, lettuce, or tomatos.
Cyanobacteria is naturally occurring, appearing like scum, fuzz, or globs on the surface of the water. Despite the name, it can also be a greenish brown colour, brown, or pinkish red, and it often smells musty or grassy.
Sections of the lake which are bloom free can still be used for recreational purposes, although AHS warned that wind conditions can cause the blooms to move from one area to another.
People who encounter or ingest cyanobacteria may experience: skin irritation, rashes, a sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea and vomiting and/or diarrhea. Symptoms usually appear within one-to-three-hours and resolve in a day or two.
Exposure to the bacteria may be fatal for pets.
If you suspect a problem related to cyanobacteria or if you require further information on health concerns related to the algae, call Health Link at 811. Additional information is also available online.
