This may not be new news for some but I just read it online this evening.
Algae alert issued for Bay of Quinte News Posted By Jason Miller, The Intelligencer, Belleville Intelligencer Posted 1 day ago
Health officials have issued a blue-green algae warning for Myers Pier in Belleville.
The warning was issued Friday evening after the dangerous bacteria, which poses a potential health risk, was spotted in the bay at Myers Pier Marina, located at the foot of South Front Street.
Officials said the warning is aimed at people who draw drinking water directly from the Bay of Quinte at the Myers Pier area or use that part of the bay for recreational activities such as swimming and fishing.
It is not known how long it will take for the algae bloom to recede but health officials from the Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit said the alert will remain in effect for two weeks following the disappearance of the algae bloom.
Officials said the municipal drinking water systems have not been affected.
Blue-green algae toxins, if present in sufficient amounts, can cause headaches, fever, diarrhea abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, skin rashes and mucous membrane irritation.
Residents are advised to consult a water treatment specialist on how to treat water to be used for drinking and cooking because the toxins cannot be removed by boiling, chlorination or ultra-violet treatment.
Alternate sources of drinking water should be used by both people and animals. People should also avoid skin contact with water affected by blue-green algae blooms. Swimming, bathing or showering in affected water should be avoided.
Health officials added the liver, kidney and other internal organs of fish or shellfish from the affected water are not safe for eating. Pets or livestock must also be prevented from coming in contact polluted water.
Residents are urged to avoid direct contact by using a alternate water source but if that's not available, to use rubber gloves if they intend to use the water for washing clothes or dishes.
FISH HUNTER
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