Blue-green algae advisory now covers all of Pigeon Lake, including beaches

Alberta Health Services (AHS)  has extended its blue-green algae advisory to cover all of Pigeon Lake, including all beaches. Residents and visitors near the shores of the lake are advised to not drink the water, swim or wade in it, and to not consume any fish from the lake.

AHS says similar blue-green algae advisories remain in place at Wizard Lake and Baptiste Lake.

AHS warns the blue-green algae produces a toxin that can cause serious illness to humans and animals that drink or come in contact with it.

Symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning include:

* Fever

* Headache and dizziness

* Stomach cramps

* Vomiting and diarrhea

* Skin and eye irritation

* Sore throat

* Swollen Lips

The symptoms often clear up after two or three days.

Officials say most algae blooms are short-lived, and should clear up after several days.

For more information, call HealthLINK Alberta at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).

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  A sign posted at Pigeon Lake warning visitors to stay away from blue-green algae blooms in the water Monday, August 1.