Western shoreline of Hamilton Harbour confirmed to have blue-green algae

HAMILTON, ON – Public Health Services has confirmed the presence of toxin-producing Blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria) at the Bayfront Park Boat Launch, Pier 4 Park, Harbour West Marina, and throughout the marinas on Macassa Bay.

Contact with blue-green algae should be avoided due to the potential health risks associated with it. Residents and visitors are advised to:

• Avoid contact with the water along the western shoreline of Hamilton Harbour, including while launching or trailering watercraft.
• Wash off as soon as possible with clean water, if they come in contact with the water. Facilities for hand washing and rinsing off are available at the Bayfront Park Public Washrooms located at the east side of the Bayfront Park parking lot.
• Keep pets out of the water.

Health Effects

Adverse health effects are mainly caused by drinking the water that is contaminated with blue-green algae toxins. Skin contact with blue-green algae contaminated water can cause skin irritation and itching. Exposure to blue-green algae toxins, if present in sufficient amounts, can cause headaches, fever, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, skin rashes and mucous membrane irritation.

Anyone who has recently been in direct contact with the waters along the western shoreline of Hamilton Harbour and is experiencing headaches, fever, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting is advised to contact their primary care provider (family physician, nurse practitioner or walk-in clinic).

Additional Resources

• For the current status of the water quality at Hamilton beaches visit www.hamilton.ca/beaches
• Learn more about blue-green algae.