Blue-green algae advisories have been lifted for four Central Alberta lakes.
Cooler autumn weather has cooled water temperatures to the extent that blue-green algae is no longer a concern at Alix Lake, Haunted Lake, Pine Lake and Pigeon Lake.
Alberta Health Services issued a toxic blue-green algae alert for a number of the lakes this summer. An advisory for Gull Lake was lifted by the end of August, but advisories remained in place for the others until now.
Blue-green algae produces a poison that can cause illness in animals or humans who even have skin contact with the noxious water.
Symptoms can include skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea and vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Signs of toxicity in children are often more pronounced because they tend to spend more time in the water and are more likely to accidentally ingest it.
Although weather and wind conditions can cause algae blooms to move from one location to another, the toxins can stay in the water even after algae has moved or disappeared. For this reason, the advisory for some lakes was in place until now.
If anyone suspects a problem related to blue-green algae, or requires further information, please call Health Link Alberta at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).