The Ministry of Environment, Conservation, and Parks is investigating a possible blue-green algae bloom in the Ausable River, near the Grand Bend Yacht Club in Lambton Shores.
Lambton Public Health (LPH) said samples were collected Tuesday afternoon and will be submitted for algal identification and cyanotoxin analysis.
Bacteria from blue-green algae can be harmful to humans and animals. As stated on the ministry's website, blue-green algae blooms commonly occur in late summer and early fall.
Those who have contact with or consume toxins from a blue-green algae bloom can experience symptoms such as irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, throat, or lungs; stomach pain; headaches; diarrhea; vomiting; and in severe cases, liver damage.
LPH said symptoms may be more severe if large quantities of contaminated water are swallowed. In those cases, affected individuals are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.
Health officials have released a list of safety measures for those who are where a bloom was detected or where a bloom is visible.
• Do not use the water and keep animals out of the water. This includes drinking, cooking, bathing, swimming and other water sports, and brushing teeth. Note: using a private water system or boiling the water will NOT destroy the toxins.
• If skin contact does occur, wash with soap and water and then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae.
• Limit the amount of fish flesh you eat. Some toxins can build up in fish and shellfish. Do not eat the liver, kidneys, and other organs. Be careful not to cut the organs when filleting.
