WAVERELY: Nova Scotia Environment (NSE) is warning residents and tourists alike to not swim, drink water, or eat fish that are caught in Powder Mill Lake in Waverley.
The reason behind the warning is because of probable blue-green algae bloom in the lake.
NSE says—in a release—that while the health risk is fairly low, avoiding contact with the water is a simple precaution to prevent the potential health risks of some blue-green algae.
“Blue-green algae blooms are naturally occurring and can produce toxins,” NSE said.
“People should not drink the water or use it to prepare or cook food, or to brush teeth. Boiling the water will not eliminate potential toxins.”
People who have ingested water containing toxins from blue-green algae may experience stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. Recreational use of the water, bathing and showering is not advised. Direct contact with toxins from the algae can cause skin and eye irritation. If symptoms persist after a few days, consult a health-care provider.
Pets and other animals should not be permitted to drink or swim in the water.
More information is available at www.gov.ns.ca/nse/water/docs/BlueGreenAlgae.pdf and http://novascotia.ca/dhw/environmental/blue-green-algae.asp.
