As a heat wave sweeps across the province, Alberta Health Services (AHS) has issued blue-green algae and fecal bacteria advisories for several lakes ahead of the long weekend. AHS detected blue-green algae at Battle Lake, which is just southwest of Pigeon Lake; Mons Lake, northwest of Smoky Lake; Black Nugget Lake located about 70 kilometres southeast of Edmonton; and Long Lake in Thorhild County. Blue-green algae often appears like scum, grass clippings, fuzz or globs on the water’s surface. It can be blue-green, greenish-brown, brown or pinkish-red and might smell musty or grassy. Those who come in contact or ingest water with blue-green algae may experience skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Exposure to the bacteria can be fatal to pets. AHS says to avoid all contact with blue-green algae blooms. If contact occurs, wash with tap water as soon as possible. People and pets are advised not to swim or wade in any areas where the algae is visible. Humans should limit consumption of whole fish and fish trimmings from the lake. Do not feed whole fish or fish trimmings from the lake to pets. Fish filets from the lake are still safe for human consumption. Waters where the algae is not visible can still be used for recreational purposes, even while the advisory is in place. The health authority said high levels of fecal bacteria have been detected at McArthur Beach on Lac La Biche and are advising the public not to swim or wade in the water at the beach area. Gastrointestinal illness may result from ingesting the water at the beach at current levels. There is also the possibility of skin, ear, and eye infections with water contact. The advisories are in place until further notice.
