Prince George, B.C. – B.C.’s Ministry of Environment has identified a blue-green algae bloom in Nulki Lake, southwest of Vanderhoof.

Dale Chen, environmental health team lead with Northern Health, says it’s the only confirmed case so far though it has the potential to grow anywhere.

“Absolutely. Blue-green algae is naturally occurring, it’s actually present in every lake though it only becomes visible to us when the conditions are ripe like right now with the warm weather.”

To the lay person, he says it looks like “green slime” and can have the following health effects if ingested:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Stomach cramps, abdominal pain and diarrhea

Chen says blue-green algae has also been known to affects pets and livestock.

If you do come into contact with it, he says to wash yourself with tap water as soon as possible.

“And if you are drawing your water from a lake source that might have an active bloom, don’t drink it, look for an alternative source. And don’t boil it, it will make things worse.”

If you suspect a problem related to blue-green algae, Northern Health suggest you call Environmental Health at 250-565-2150.