Alberta Health Services is advising residents and visitors to Moonshine Lake that Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) has been identified in the water.
As a result, visitors to the lake are advised to avoid all contact with algae blooms, do not swim or wade or allow pets to swim in any areas where the bacteria is visible, and avoid consuming fish from the lake.
Additionally, according to AHS, it is unsafe for visitors to drink or cook with water from the lake, even if it is boiled. The Health authority says boiling the lake’s water will not remove the toxins produced by cyanobacteria.
AHS advises that people who come into contact with visible cyanobacteria or who ingest water containing the algae could experience symptoms from skin irritation to swollen lips and eyes, and even vomiting or diarrhea. AHS adds that symptoms tend to be more pronounced in children and exposure could be fatal to pets.
Visitors to the lake are encouraged to keep their eyes open for lake scum or fuzz on the surface of the water that appears to be blue-green, greenish-brown, brown, or pinkish-red in colour.
Weather and wind conditions also play a factor in the advisory, as AHS says natural occurrences could move the algae from one area of the lake to another, and as a result, the advisory will remain in effect “until further notice.”
The lake remains available for recreation during this time; however, visitors are encouraged to exercise caution when fishing, kayaking, or using the lake for any reason even if the algae is not visible.
Anyone who believes they have come in contact with cyanobacteria or is experiencing symptoms is advised to contact Health Link at 8-1-1 with any questions.
