Your source for a variety of public health and safety alerts
BLUE-GREEN ALGAE BLOOM ADVISORY
The Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Health and the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority are advising the public to avoid swimming in or drinking water where blue-green algae blooms are occurring. Pet owners and livestock producers are also advised to keep their animals away from such water.
Algae blooms are heavy concentrations of blue-green algae, which often give the water a pea soup appearance, usually blue-green, bright blue, grey or tan in colour. Warm temperatures in the province can result in the quick formation of algal blooms.
Algae blooms commonly occur during calm, hot weather in areas of lakes and reservoirs with shallow, slow moving or still water that is rich in nutrients. The blooms can last up to three weeks and can be pushed around the lake or reservoir by the wind.
Swimming in or drinking this algae-contaminated water can cause red skin, sore throat, cramps or diarrhea. In addition, caution should be taken when considering the consumption of fish or shellfish caught in areas of a water body where a bloom exists; in particular the internal organs of the fish should not be eaten.
If you have health-related questions about blue-green algae, please contact your local Public Health Office.
West Nile Virus
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause disease in anyone. Most people who become infected experience no symptoms or have very mild illness (fever, headaches, body aches). However, the virus can result in serious neurological illness such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) which can have long-term complications and even cause death.
There is no cure for West Nile Virus.
West Nile Virus is transmitted to people through bites from infected mosquitoes. There are many types of mosquitoes, most of which are only nuisance mosquitoes. The main carriers of WNV in Saskatchewan are Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, most abundant during July, August and early September.
The risk of WNV varies from year to year, depending on the mosquito population. The risk is higher if you are active and outside on the farm, at the cottage, camping, hiking, gardening or golfing. The elderly and those with certain medical conditions are at higher risk of developing the severe form of WNV. If you are exposed to infected mosquitoes, you are at risk. When you’re outside, take preventative measures to reduce that risk.
Personal protection and reducing mosquito habitats will help reduce the risk of West Nile Virus to you and your family.
Cover Up
Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves, long pants and socks.
Apply Repellant
Products with DEET are recommended. Follow manufacturer’s directions for application.
Clean Up Outside
Frequently empty containers with standing water; cover containers with standing water with mesh or screening.