Harmful bacteria found in local body of water

Blue-green algae is pictured in this undated image.

The township of Severn says test results have come back positive for cyanobacteria in a local body of water.

Known otherwise as blue-green algae, the organism is confirmed to be blooming along the southwest shore of Sparrow Lake, according to tests done by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP).

The organism is known to produce toxins that can harm both humans and animals.

Residents are asked to avoid areas of the lake where the algae is visible.

The township says when the algae is present, the water will often look “bluish-green” or similar to green pea soup or turquoise paint.

Contact with or consumption of blue-green algae blooms can result in symptoms such as skin, eye, or throat irritation. Those affected may also experience breathing difficulties, headaches, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain and nausea or vomiting.

The township says symptoms can be much worse if infected water is consumed in large quantities.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit and the MECP say they will continue to monitor the bloom and provide further updates as possible.

Sightings of the algae can be reported to the Ministry of Environment online or by calling 1-800-268-6060.