Blue-green algae found in Wildwood Reservoir

Wildwood Reservoir posted as unsafe for swimming
Huron Perth Public Health and Southwestern Public Health are advising people that a bloom of blue-green algae has been detected in Wildwood Reservoir at Wildwood Conservation Area, which is near St. Marys. Blue-green algae can produce toxins which may be harmful to health through direct contact or consumption.
The Health Units advise that the Wildwood Reservoir is unsafe for swimming. Until further notice, residents and visitors should take the following precautions:
- Avoid swimming or other activities that involve direct contact with the water in Wildwood Reservoir (note that children are more vulnerable to the toxins produced by the algae than adults).
- Do not allow pets to swim in or drink from the water.
- Thoroughly wash any area of exposure with clean water and soap, in case of accidental exposure to the water.
- Do not eat fish caught in Wildwood Reservoir.
While the blue-green algae may not show the presence of toxins, there is always a risk that toxins could be produced. Toxins may stay in the water for up to three weeks after the algae bloom is gone. Drinking water supplies from wells in the area have not been affected by this algae bloom, as blooms are not a concern for groundwater drinking supplies.
The severity of symptoms and the level of risk to health depend on how you are exposed to blue-green algae toxins. Human health effects may include:
- Itchy, irritated eyes and skin from direct contact through activities such as swimming, and;
- Flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, if large quantities of the toxin are swallowed.
Both Health Units are working with staff from the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) to monitor the water at Wildwood Reservoir.
For more information, see the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks webpage on Blue-Green Algae. Perth County residents can call Huron Perth Public Health toll-free at 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3267. Oxford County residents can call Southwestern Public Health at 519-421-9901 or toll-free at 1-800- 922-0096.
About Huron Perth Public Health
Huron Perth Public Health works with our community to promote and protect health and prevent illness, based on community need, evidence and law. We're dedicated to delivering public health programs, classes and services in our community that are accessible for everyone. Our public health nurses, health inspectors, health promoters, dietitians, epidemiologists, and many other professionals promote and protect the health of our community. We are governed by the Board of Health and mandated by the Health Protection and Promotion Act. Our main offices are located in Stratford and Clinton. For more information, visit www.hpph.ca
About Southwestern Public Health
Southwestern Public Health works with its partners to ensure the health of the whole community. Our programs respond to public health emergencies; promote healthy lifestyles; help prevent injuries, illness and disease in the community; and promote positive change and social conditions that improve health. Southwestern Public Health delivers mandated programs under the Ontario Public Health Standards and is regulated by the Ontario Health Protection and Promotion Act. The health unit maintains primary locations in Woodstock and St. Thomas. For more information, visit www.swpublichealth.ca.
Media Contacts:
Huron Perth Public Health Communications Team 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3279 | communications@hpph.ca
Southwestern Public Health Communications Team 519-631-9900 | communications@swpublichealth.ca