A bloom of blue-green algae has been detected in the Wildwood Reservoir at Wildwood Conservation Area.
Huron Perth Public Health and Southwestern Public Health advise that the algae can produce toxins, which may be harmful to health through direct contact or consumption.
The Wildwood Reservoir is unsafe for swimming and until further notice, residents and visitors should take the following precautions:
- Avoid swimming or other activities that involve direct contact with the water in Wildwood Reservoir (note that children are more vulnerable to the toxins produced by the algae than adults).
- Do not allow pets to swim in or drink from the water.
- Thoroughly wash any area of exposure with clean water and soap, in case of accidental exposure to the water.
- Do not eat fish caught in Wildwood Reservoir.
While the blue-green algae may not show the presence of toxins, there is always a risk that toxins could be produced. Toxins may stay in the water for up to three weeks after the algae bloom is gone. Drinking water supplies from wells in the area have not been affected by this algae bloom, as blooms are not a concern for groundwater drinking supplies.
The severity of symptoms and the level of risk to health depend on how you are exposed to blue-green algae toxins. Human health effects may include itchy, irritated eyes and skin from direct contact through activities such as swimming and flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, if large quantities of the toxin are swallowed.
Both health units are working with Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) to monitor the water at the Wildwood Reservoir.
For more information, see the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks webpage on Blue-Green Algae.
Perth County residents can call Huron Perth Public Health toll-free at 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3267.