Update on Wasi Lake blue-green algae

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit advises that the blue-green algae bloom on the South End of Wasi Lake is only a risk for those directly in the vicinity of the algae bloom on the lake.

“Those who use the water downstream from Wasi Lake do not need to be concerned about the current algae bloom because the risk is only in the vicinity of the bloom,” said Peter Jekel, Director of Environmental Health. “Municipal water supplies also have no problems because the treatment will remove blue-green algae and the toxins.”

While the blue-green algae may not show the presence of toxins, there is always the risk that toxins could be produced. These toxins may stay in the water for up to three weeks after the algae bloom is gone.

The Health Unit advises residents of Wasi Lake and any visitors to the area to take the following precautions for three weeks after the bloom has disappeared:

• Avoid using the water from Wasi Lake for drinking, cooking and bathing. Use an alternate source of water for these purposes.

• NOTE- Boiling the water or using home water treatment devices will NOT destroy the toxins.

• Avoid swimming and other water sport activities that could increase the risk of algae material and toxins contacting your skin or being swallowed.

• Avoid using water from Wasi Lake for pets and livestock.

For more information on Blue-Green Algae, visit at www.healthunit.biz in the Hot Topics, or call the Health Unit at 474-1400.

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