SUDBURY -- Health officials are warning the public harmful blue-green algae, cyanobacteria, has been found in Whitestone Lake in Dunchurch, west of Sundridge.

"Species of the algae capable of producing toxins were confirmed by the laboratory of the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks," said North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit in news release Wednesday.

The toxins in the algae can irritate the skin and, if swallowed, cause diarrhea and vomiting.

"Residents of Whitestone Lake may be affected depending on their closeness to the algae bloom, the size of the lake, wind direction, water flow, and other environmental conditions that cannot be predicted or controlled," said the health unit. "Due to the many factors involved, government authorities are unable to determine where and when there are no toxins."

If you live 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 when 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.

The Health Unit has not closed the beaches, but rather advises individuals that they need to take caution in the area.

You can find out more about harmful algae at myhealthunit.ca/algae or by calling the Health Unit at 705-474-1400, ext. 5400 or 1-800-563-2808.

Facts about blue-green algae:

  • Cyanobacteria – also called harmful algae, blue-green algae or ‘pond scum’ – are not really algae, but tiny bacteria.
  • Although usually hard to see, during hot weather they can grow rapidly to form a large mass, called a bloom. Blooms continually change and are difficult to predict. Wind, temperature or sunlight could change where the bloom is located in the water.
  • Dense harmful algae blooms may make the water look bluish-green, or like green pea soup or turquoise paint. Very dense blooms may form solid-looking clumps.
  • Fresh blooms often smell like newly mown grass, while older blooms may smell like rotting garbage.
  • Even when a bloom has disappeared, toxins can persist in water bodies for a period of time.
  • Long-term toxin exposure at high levels may cause liver and nervous system damage.