Local health units are urging residents to avoid the Wildwood Reservoir near St. Marys after the discovery of a blue-green algae bloom.
Huron Perth Public Health and Southwestern Public Health issued a statement on Tuesday that the Wildwood Reservoir at Wildwood Conservation Area is unsafe for swimming due to the algae.
The health units said blue-green algae can produce toxins that can be harmful to a person's health either through direct contact or consumption. The toxins can stay in the water for up to three weeks after the algae bloom is gone. Children are more vulnerable to the toxins than adults.
The public and all pets should avoid swimming or drinking the water until further notice. As well, anyone who is exposed to the water should thoroughly wash with clean water and soap. Any fish caught from the reservoir may also be contaminated.
The health units said drinking water from wells in the area has not been affected by the algae bloom.
Anyone exposed to blue-green algae toxins can develop itchy, irritated eyes and skin. Flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are also possible if large quantities of the toxin are swallowed.
The two health units, along with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, are continuing to monitor the situation in the reservoir.
