Keep your pets away from bay if you see this: Simcoe Muskoka health unit

The regional health unit is urging caution among residents and visitors to a portion of Sparrow Lake following the discovery of a blue-green algae bloom on the west side of Deep Bay.

Many species of blue-green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to the health of humans and animals, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit said in an Oct. 27 statement.

The health unit is asking residents and visitors to exercise caution where blue-green algae is visible and to take the following precautions:

–    Do not use the lake water for the preparation of infant formula.

–   Do not allow pets or livestock to drink or swim in the water where an algae bloom is visible.

–    Be cautious about eating fish caught in water where blue-green algae blooms occur.

–    Do not use herbicides, copper sulphate or other algaecides that may break open algae cells and release toxins into the water.

–   Avoid swimming and other water sport activities where an algae bloom is visible.

Blooms may make the water appear bluish-green, or resemble green pea soup or turquoise paint.

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks will further analyze samples to determine the presence of any toxins, the health unit said.

Symptoms from consuming toxins from a blue-green algae bloom can include headaches, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and can be more serious if water is swallowed in large quantities.