2 Lake Erie beaches closed due to a blue-green algae bloom

Two beaches along the shore of Lake Erie, Getty's Beach and Pier Road Beach, were closed Thursday due to a blue-green algae bloom, according to the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit.

Meanwhile, it will likely take a few days before local authorities know if there is a blue-green algae bloom in the water at Hillman Marsh Beach, a water quality scientist with the Essex Region Conservation Authority said Thursday afternoon.

Until the tests come back, Katie Stammler has this advice for those looking to take a dip:

"I would recommend if the water is green don't swim in it and don't let your pets in it, as it can cause skin irritation and stomach upset in dogs," said the scientist in a phone interview with CBC.

"Be mindful of it, as I always say: If the water's green, then don't go in it."

A potential blue-green algae bloom was spotted in the area and the water is set to be tested for the presence of the microcystins, which is the most common toxin produced during a blue-green algae bloom, according to a press release from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit. 

The health unit is advising local residents not to swim or play in affected water and to avoid letting pets drink water from the affected beach.

Skin contact with the microcystins can lead to: itchy, irritated eyes and skin if you swim, bathe, or shower in contaminated water. Swallowing contaminated water in small quantities could result in: headaches, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. While swallowing contaminated water in large quantities could lead to more serious health effects, such as liver damage, says the press release.

The advisory will remain in effect until test results for microcystins are received from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change lab and reviewed by the health unit.