A public warning has been issued about a possible occurrence of blue-green algae at Moonlight Beach on Ramsey Lake in Sudbury.
Public Health Sudbury and Districts (PHSD) along with the Ministry of the Environment, and Conservation Sudbury are currently investigating the possibility of the algal bloom and are warning the public to avoid the situation.
Blue-green algal blooms have an unsightly pea soup appearance and a foul smell, and can produce toxins, said the health unit.
Also, public health said blue-green algal blooms could also appear in other parts of affected lakes. Because blooms are not anchored, they can move from one location to another through wind and water action.
PHSD said new blooms can also form in other local water bodies. All residents on lakes or rivers should look for blooms in their area.
Public health said the highest concentrations of toxins are usually found in blooms and scum on the shoreline. These dense accumulations pose the greatest potential risks to people and pets. The algae toxins can irritate a person’s skin and, if ingested, cause diarrhea and vomiting. If a person ingests high levels of toxin, they could suffer liver and nervous system damage.
For more information on blue-green algae, including a list and map of water bodies with confirmed blooms, please visit our website at phsd.ca or call Public Health Sudbury & Districts at 705-522-9200, ext. 398 (toll-free 1.866.522.9200).
