A blue-green algae bloom has led to the closure of Colchester Beach.
"The harbour is definitely involved in a full blown algae bloom. The water was discoloured and green with suspended matter within the beach area, so the inspector deemed it a potential health hazard," says Manager of Health Inspections Mike Tudor with the Windsor Essex County Health Unit.
Tudor says there are many risks associated with the algae bloom and humans and animals should avoid it.
"Itchy, irritated eyes if you were to go swimming in it or bathe and shower in it if anyone is deriving their water from the lake. If you swallow small quantities of water there's the potential for headaches, fever, diarrhea , abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting," says Tudor.
Tudor says Cedar Island Beach may also be at risk for an algae bloom. He says they will continue to monitor the beaches as the warm weather persists.
