Currently, baseline data about recreational water illness is lacking in Canada. Beachgoers may lack awareness and understanding of recreational water illness risks and how to prevent them. This study aims to identify the burden of recreational water illness among Canadian beachgoers.  The long term goal is to reduce the burden of recreational water illness in Canada, contributing to improved public health. 

Cyanobacterial blooms are increasingly common in Canadian freshwater bodies, posing health risks to humans and animals due to toxin exposure. However, limited data exist on illness risks associated with recreational water contact at affected beaches. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating recreational water illness linked to cyanobacterial blooms at four popular beaches in Ontario, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia.