An area health unit wants everyone to be prepared for what could be one of the most severe algae blooms ever to hit Lake Erie.
Acting Associate Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed says the toxin found in blue-green algae, microcystin, has never entered the local drinking supply, so it's really the beaches that residents have to keep an eye on. "People who are swimming or bathing in the lake, and the lake is affected by blue-green algae, then they'll have health issues such as skin irritation, burning, rashes and irritated eyes," explains Ahmed. The doctor adds that accidental ingestion, even for a pet, can cause liver damage.
Weekly algae bloom updates are made available at www.wechu.org, and alerts are also sent out through media outlets when necessary.
Water Quality Scientist Katie Stammler says heavy rains through the spring and early summer have contributed to prime algae bloom conditions near Pelee Island.