Alberta Health Servives are warning those who visit Elk Island National Park of blue-green algae seen in the waters of Astotin Lake.
AHS says to avoid all contact with blue-green algae blooms and to wash with tap water as soon as possible if contact happens.
Do not swim or allow pets in areas where algae is visible.
Consider limiting human consumption of fish or fish trimmings from the lake, do not feed any food to pets.
Fish filets from the lake are safe for humans to eat.
Blue-green algae can look like grass clippings, scum or globs on the water surface. It can be blue-green, brown, greenish-brown or pinkish-red, and could smell musty or grassy.
Consuming water containing the bacteria can lead to skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea and vomitting and/or diarrhea.
Waters of Astotin Lake that do not have visible blue-green algae can still be used for recreational purposes.
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