Blue-green algae has returned to Eagle Lake, according to an advisory by Alberta Health Services (AHS) issued on Friday.

A blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) bloom was identified in parts Eagle Lake, located about five kilometers outside of Strathmore. Residents living around the lake should avoid contact with the blue-green algae blooms, and wash with tap water if contact occurs.

Do not swim or wade in the water, or allow pets to do the same, where the algae is visible. Do not feed fish from the lake to pets and consider limiting human consumption of whole fish and fish trimmings from the lake. According to an AHS news release, it is known that fish may store toxins in their liver. (People can safely eat fish fillets.)

People who come into contact with blue-green algae may have skin irritation, a rash, sore throat, red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea and vomiting, or diarrhea. Symptoms typically appear in one to three hours and end in one to two days.

Boiling water will not remove toxins produced by blue-green algae. Blue-green algae occurs naturally and has the appearance of grass clippings, fuzz, or pond scum on the surface of water. It can appear blue-green, green-brown, brown or pinkish-red.

For more information on blue-green algae, please contact Health Link at 811, or visit www.ahs.ca/bga.