A blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) health advisory has been issued by Alberta Health Services (AHS) for a nearby lake.
AHS issued the advisory in late June after the algae was spotted at Astotin Lake in Elk Island National Park.
Blue-green algae occurs naturally during calm and warmer weather, usually between July and September. Health risks caused by blue-green algae exposure include:
- Skin irritation
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Sore red eyes
- Swollen lips
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
AHS advises people who come into contact with the algae to rinse off with tap water. Dogs and other animals should not come into contact with the bacteria as it can be fatal.
However, areas of the lake where the bacteria are not visible can still be used for recreational purposes.
Weather and wind can cause algae to move throughout the lake. Due to this, the advisory will remain in place until further notice.