Blue-green algae causes closure of Hamilton’s Pier 4 Park beach

The presence of toxin-producing blue-green algae has been confirmed at the Pier 4 Park beach, according to Hamilton Public Health.

As a result, the City says the beach will be closed until the blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, subsides.

This type of algae usually forms in shallow, warm, slow-moving or still waters, and can stick around until late November or early December.

Residents are encouraged to avoid contact with the water, including when launching or retrieving watercrafts, and no swimming or wading is permitted.

READ MORE: Binbrook Conservation Area beach closed after blue-green algae found

Blue-green algae can cause skin irritation, rash, sore throat, sore red eyes, swollen lips, fever, nausea and vomiting and/or diarrhea.

Anyone who comes in contact with the water should wash themselves immediately with clean water.

Those who are experiencing symptoms and have recently been in direct contact with the water at Pier 4 Park beach should contact their primary care provider.

Hamilton Public Health says it will continue to gather water samples and monitor the situation, with updates provided at the City’s website.