Blue-green algae found in Nashwaak Lake

Blue-green algae has been found in Nashwaak Lake, prompting a public health warning against using the water for drinking, cooking or swimming or other recreation.

The algae can produce toxins that can sickenhumans and kill other animals, the regional medical officer of health said in a news release.

The warning comes after lab tests confirmed the presence of the bloom on a sampletaken fromthe lake northwest of Fredericton.

"Water from a lake should never be used for drinking or cooking without treatment,"Dr.Na-KoshieLampteysaid.

"Boiling water from a lake with a bloom will not remove the toxins produced by the blue-green algae."

The algae blooms can occur in water when certain conditions are present,usually during the summer or early fall.

The algae can produce toxins that can cause skin, eye and throat irritation. Ifconsumed, they can lead to more serious health effects such as severe gastrointestinal illness.

"Young children and those with skin conditions may be particularly vulnerable to these health effects," the news release said.

"Blue-green algae can be fatal to pets and livestock."

If anyone catches a fish from water with blue-greenalgae blooms, the organs have to be removed and the fish thoroughly rinsed with potable water before cooked and consumed.

Lampteysaidpeople need to be cautious because theblooms can be unpredictable.

Users are advised to take note of the quality of the water before going in.A bloom appears as a paint-like scum or blue, green or other discoloured water.

Anyonewho suspects thealgae bloom may be present should let the regional office of the Department of Environment and Local Government know.