Potentially harmful algae found in Lake Scugog water samples

A type of algae that could be harmful to people and pets has been found in a water sample taken from Lake Scugog. 

Today, the Durham Region Health Department announced that a water sample collected by a provincial ministry on July 15 showed the presence of blue-green algae. 

According to the Ontario government, blue-green algae can be harmful to people and pets who come in contact with it while swimming, as some types can produce cyanotoxins that can cause eye and skin irritation. If accidentally ingested in large quantities, the algae can cause headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

The Lake Scugog sample was collected near Platten Island.

“In the summer months, as weather conditions vary, there may be more occurrences of blue-green algae throughout Lake Scugog and other bodies of surface water in Durham Region,” the region said in a news release. 

“While there is currently no evidence of blue-green algae at Kinsmen Beach (Palmer Park, Port Perry), due to history of blue-green algae at Kinsmen Beach and the fact that blue-green algae has been observed in another part of the lake, the Health Department will be posting advisory signs at Kinsmen Beach as a precaution.” 

Swimmers who see algae mats that are blue-green, olive-green, or red should avoid entering the water and ensure that children and pets also refrain from swimming or playing in the lake. Residents should also remember that lake water is not suitable for drinking and that swimming should be avoided if the water contains foam, scum or mats of algae on the surface. 

The region also advises against consuming fish from areas where algae mats are present or where a swimming advisory is posted.

The Health Department monitors 14 public beaches throughout Durham Region from early June until the end of August. Information notices about blue-green algae are posted at all public beaches during the beach monitoring season. If blue-green algae are confirmed at these beaches, advisory signs will also be posted.