Outbreak of blue-green algae at Lake Isle west of Edmonton

Alberta Health Services has issued a warning for Lake Isle, 100 kilometres west of Edmonton, because of blue-green algae.

People have been warned not to swim in the lake or consume fish caught there. Dogs should also be kept out of the lake and they should not drink the water.

Blue-green algae contains a toxin that can cause serious illness in people or animals who drink or have skin contact with contaminated water. People who come into contact with the toxin can experience rashes, sore eyes, sore throats, swollen lips, nausea, and vomiting or diarrhea. The warning about the algae will remain in place until further notice.