By Staff
September 5, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON.
It has been one of those summers – floods, awkward weather, there were a couple of good weekends but the environment on the whole has not been good to us.
Blue green algae tends to float near the surface and wave action brings it close to shore. Its colour makes it very easy to identify. Exposure to the algae causes skin irritation.
Add to the woes is the news from the Halton Region’s Health Department advising residents to avoid swimming and wading in the waters at Beachway Park and LaSalle Park in Burlington because blue-green algae (BGA) have been identified at these locations. Residents are also advised not to eat fish caught in these areas and not to let pets play in or drink the water.
Halton’s drinking water is not affected and continues to be safe.
“Some blue-green algae have the potential to produce toxins or skin irritants,” explained Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Halton Region Medical Officer of Health. “Adverse health effects from the algae can be caused by drinking BGA-contaminated water. Additionally, skin irritation and itching can result from skin contact with BGA-contaminated water.”
As a precaution, signs have been posted to warn beach users.
If you have been swimming or wading in these waters and feel unwell, please visit your physician or walk-in clinic.
