By Rebbeca Marroquin

Blue-Green Algae could make you sick

Jul 20, 2017 | 12:00 PM

A harmful algae bloom coloured green and blue has been found floating in Saskatchewan waters.

The Ministry of Health and Water Security Agency are asking the public to avoid water where its present. 

They say direct contact or consumption of algae-contamintaed water can cause red skin, sore throat, cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Fish or shellfish caught where there is blue-green algae should not be eaten. 

According to Colby Elfrod, Regional Livestock Specialist, blue-green algae is commonly formed during hot weather in areas of lakes and reservoirs with shallow, slow moving or still water. The blooms can last on the water surface for up to three days. 

He said blue-green algae is commonly found in the summer, but it may be tricky to spot it.

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“If people are concerned we can help identify it,” he said. Samples of water where blue-green algae may be present can be taken into a lab for testing.

According to the Agriculture Knowledge Centre, you can kill this type of algae with a product containing copper sulphate. One pound of copper sulphate will treat 947,000 litres. One method of application is by first dissolving the product in warm water, and then spraying it over the surface of the water.  

If you have health symptoms, call Healthline 811 or contact your health care provider.

rebbeca.marroquin@jpbg.ca

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