As local officials continue to monitor a blue-green algae bloom in the Thames River, local residents are being warned to take care.
Valerie Towsley is a resource technician with the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, and says this type of bacteria can be dangerous for pets too.
“Keep pets away and don’t let them consume the water. All animals, livestock don’t be feeding the animals water from the river right now. Don’t really recommend going swimming right now,” says Towsley. ” Just stay away until it starts to clear up.”
Towsley says exposure could cause nausea or vomiting.
If you have any concerns, contact the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit.
