Alberta Health Services issued an advisory Aug. 19 that blue-green algae is present in the lake. The advisory warned residents and visitors to not drink the water in the lake or let their pets drink it, even after boiling, not to swim in the lake and to avoid contact with algae on the shoreline.
Alberta's health authority has warned that blue-green algae has made Lac La Biche Lake unsafe for swimming.
Alberta Health Services issued an advisory Aug. 19 that blue-green algae is present in the lake. The advisory warned residents and visitors to not drink the water in the lake or let their pets drink it, even after boiling, not to swim in the lake and to avoid contact with algae on the shoreline.
According to the advisory, blue-green algae can produce a poison dangerous to humans or animals who come into skin contact with it, and the toxin can remain even after the visible blooms are gone.
While the report warns people not to feed whole fish or fish trimmings in the lake to pets and to limit their own consumption, fish fillets may be safely consumed.
The advisory will remain in effect until further notice, and the AHS askes anyone who suspects they may be experiencing problems related to the algae, which can include skin irritation, sore throat, swollen lips, fever, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea to call Health Link Alberta at (866) 408-5465.
