The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has closed the beaches along Pelee Island, due to a blue-green algae bloom.
Associate medical officer of health, Dr. Gary Kirk says water quality along the shoreline and in private well water systems could be compromised. As a result, island residents should only drink from bottled water. Boiling water will not eliminate any toxins the algae bloom could create.
Beaches are closed and residents are asked to not swim in the water. Residents are also asked to not cook, bathe, or eat fish caught from the lake.
Water contaminated by blue-green algae can cause itchy, irritated eyes and skin. If swallowed, people may develop a headache, fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or more serious health effects.
If you think you’ve developed any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor.
