The Thames River is noticeably green at the Parry Bridge on Keil Dr. in Chatham. August 30, 2017. (Photo by Matt Weverink)The Thames River is noticeably green at the Parry Bridge on Keil Dr. in Chatham. August 30, 2017. (Photo by Matt Weverink)
Windsor

WECHU issues blue algae bloom advisory

The Windsor Essex County Health Unit has issued after advisory after blue-green algae bloom was found along the south shores of Lake St. Clair.

Recent lab results show microcystins in Lake St. Clair. The advisory will remain in effect until future test results are below 1.5 parts per billion (ppb).

The health unit says residents on the municipal drinking water system can drink the water unless they are notified otherwise. Residents that use wells that draw directly from Lake St. Clair are advised not to drink the water.

At area beaches, people should avoid swimming if the water looks cloudy or like green paint or pea soup.

Pets should not drink from water during a blue-green algae bloom.

Microcystins in the water during a blue-green algae bloom could cause itchy skin and irritated eyes. If swallowed in small quantities it could cause headaches , fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. In large quantities they could cause more serious effects such as liver damage.

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