Cottagers and residents around Pigeon Lake near Bobcaygeon, Ont. have been asked to steer clear of the lake this weekend after toxic bacteria was discovered blooming in the water.
Large amounts of hazardous blue-green algae were discovered in the "back channel" section of Pigeon Lake. The area is on the northeast end of the lake.
Peterborough's health unit has asked residents in the affected area not to swim in the water or use it for any purpose including drinking, cooking and bathing.
Dogs and other pets should also be kept away from water, officials said.
The toxic foul-smelling algae, which looks like pea soup, can cause a spate of health problems. Anyone exposed to the bacteria could experience skin rashes, eye irritation, a sore throat, fever-like symptoms or vomiting.
The health unit warns that boiling lake water won't solve any problems. Though boiling will get rid of the algae, it will only release toxins back into the water.
With a report from CTV's Michelle Dube
