Interior Health is reminding people who use Nicola Lake that there is a risk of exposure to cyanobacterial toxin due to the presence of a blue-green algae bloom on the lake. Samples of lake water taken on July 18, July 10 and July 7 tested positive for the presence of cyanobacterial toxin.
Samples were taken at two beach locations on the lake and due to the nature of algae blooms, the advisory is being issued for the whole lake at this time. Cyanobacteria can produce several types of toxin that can be poisonous to people, pets and livestock.
Exposure to cyanobacteria toxin can occur through ingestion of or contact with contaminated water. For this reason, Interior Health, in cooperation with BC Parks, has closed the beach at Monck Park.
View a list of current beach closures
Lake users are advised to not use the water in the lake at this time:
- If you obtain drinking water from the lake, you should use an alternate source, such as bottled water. Boiling the water will not remove the toxin.
- Do not swim in the water and avoid contact with the water by avoiding recreational activities such as, boating and waterskiing. If your skin is exposed to contaminated water, rinse off with clean water immediately.
- Use an alternate source of drinking water for pets and livestock.
- Exposure to the toxins can result in symptoms that are visible shortly after exposure including dizziness, cramps, diarrhea, skin rash and mouth blisters (from ingestion).
- If you show symptoms that may be linked to cyanobacteria exposure, contact your physician. For more information please visit HealthLink BC's webpage Cyanobacteria Blooms (Blue-green Algae)
Algae blooms can remain in a water body for weeks to months. Once the bloom is no longer present and two consecutive sets of samples do not show the presence of cyanobacteria toxin, Interior Health will review the beach closure and advisory.
To report other algae blooms please visit the provincial Algae Watch webpage.
