As temperatures soared across Alberta for the last two weeks, many people hit the beaches to cool off.
But some less-than-welcome visitors also made a splash in our lakes: blue-green algae.
This naturally occurring cyanobacteria, which loves warm, nutrient-rich waters, has led to health advisories for several provincial lakes. Swimming is now prohibited in those lakes.
What’s The Problem?
But what’s the deal with this algae, and why should we be concerned?
Rolf Vinebrooke, a biological sciences whiz at the University of Alberta, broke it down for CBC News.
Blue-green algae is a bit of a chameleon, appearing in all shapes and colours, from green powder of leftover salad to mouldy-looking scum or foam on the water’s surface. Some even show up in unusual hues like red.
However, only a few species are the real party crashers, producing toxins that can harm humans and animals.
“The bad boy list is probably only your top 10 or so.… All the other ones are relatively benign,” said Vinebrooke.
That’s good to hear, but unfortunately, the side effects of that short list are enough to make you think twice about going for a dip without checking for advisories first.
The Risks
Alberta Health Services outlines the risks: people who come in contact with or ingest cyanobacteria may experience skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore eyes, red eyes, and swollen lips, and, in more severe cases, fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In severe cases, it could even affect organs like the liver and kidneys.
While it’s rare for humans to face fatal consequences, our furry friends, especially dogs, are more susceptible to the toxins. Children are also at higher risk due to their smaller size and tendency to swallow water unintentionally.
Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you or anyone you know experiences symptoms.
Alberta Health Services monitors around 40 bodies of water throughout the summer and issues advisories when cyanobacteria levels are high.
The recent heat wave has provided ideal conditions for these blooms.
As Vinebrooke noted, “Just like plants, if you give them adequate amounts of nutrients, you give them adequate amounts of sunlight, and you compound that with nice, warm growing temperatures, then they’re apt to really kind of take off.”
Health officials are urging caution, with 15 advisories already issued this season,13 of those in the last week, and more expected if temperatures continue to rise.
“It doesn’t necessarily bode very well for people wanting to use lakes…August might not be the greatest month for lake water quality,” Vinebrooke cautions.
Avoid swimming or wading in affected water, and keep your pets out. If you come in contact with potentially contaminated water, rinse off with tap water immediately.
Moreover, avoid drinking untreated water from affected areas and limit the consumption of fish caught in these lakes.
As we navigate the summer heat, it is vital to stay updated about blue-green algae advisories. You can find them here.
