Blue-green algae to stink up Toronto. Here's when and why
Digital Reporter
Wednesday, July 18, 2018, 1:08 PM - Toronto Public Health (TPH) has confirmed the presence of potentially toxic blue-green algae in Humber Bay and Mimico creek.
"The algae is easily visible and should be avoided due to the potential health risks associated with it," TPH said in a Tuesday statement.
(RELATED: Toxic algae in Lake Erie)
“Adverse health effects are mainly caused by drinking and coming into contact with water that is contaminated.”
Residents are encouraged to exercise caution in the affected areas. People or pets that come into contact with the water are advised to wash immediately and contact a health-care provider.
While "normally fairly harmless in lower concentrations, blue-green algae -- also known as cyanobacteria -- pose a risk to aquatic life and human health," writes Weather Network science writer Scott Sutherland.
Symptoms of ingesting the water can include:
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Rashes
BRACE YOURSELF ... A STRONG SMELL IS COMING
Fresh blooms usually smell like "newly-mown grass", but as the summer progresses and the blooms age they may start to smell like rotting garbage, TPH says.
