The Capital Regional District (CRD) has issued yet another warning about a blue-green algae bloom at Durrance Lake in Mount Work Regional Park.
This advisory joins the existing alerts for Thetis Lake and at Elk Lake.
The appearance of blue-green algae raises critical concerns due to the potential production of cyanotoxins.
Blue-green algae, scientifically known as cyanobacteria, possess the capability to generate toxins, posing health risks to both humans and animals.
As a precautionary measure, individuals are advised to refrain from any contact with the water exhibiting the characteristic blue-green sheen. Even if the bloom isn’t visibly prominent, toxins could still be present.
Ingesting water contaminated with cyanotoxins can induce various symptoms in humans, ranging from headaches to abdominal discomfort. However, the repercussions could be far more dire for our furry friends. Dogs, in particular, face the risk of experiencing lethal liver damage if they consume water tainted with these toxins.
“These algae are known toxin producers. Ingesting water containing these cyanotoxins may cause a range of symptoms, including headaches and abdominal pain in humans, and can lead to lethal liver damage in dogs,” said the CRD in their public alert.
“Blooms are unpredictable and may occur at any time.”
