Photo: Contributed

Interior Health is warning people about an algae bloom on Shuswap Lake.

As if a global pandemic wasn't enough, Shuswap residents are now being warned about an algae bloom.

Interior Health has issued notice of a suspected blue-green algae bloom in Shuswap Lake southwest of Herald Provincial Park.

“Effective immediately and until further notice, the public is advised not to drink water directly from the lake in the vicinity of the bloom site and should avoid touching the algae, which has partially washed up on shore near Ashby Point, southwest of Herald Park,” warning posted by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District said.

“Citizens should not wade or swim in the area of the bloom and should prevent pets from ingesting any water or swimming nearby. They are also advised not to fish or consume fish caught in the area.”

The bloom, which is suspected to be Cyanobacteria (commonly known as blue-green algae), is a mass of approximately 30 metres wide and some blue-green algae blooms can produce chemicals that are poisonous if swallowed by people, pets or livestock. Blooms can cover the surface of the water and may look like thick pea soup. Not all blooms, however, are easy to see. Toxins can still be in the water even if you can not see the bloom.

If ingested, symptoms can include headaches, nausea, fever, sore throat, dizziness, stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches and blistering the mouth and lips.

Anyone exposed to the algae is urged to seek medical attention.

For more information on the bloom, click here.