Greater Shepparton City Council is warning the public to avoid direct contact with water in Kialla Lakes after monitoring detected high levels of blue-green algae.
Warning signs will be positioned at major recreational areas around Kialla Lakes and will remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present. Kialla Lakes will not be closed to the public.
Council recommends water users from Kialla Lakes seek an alternative water supply. You can still sightsee and enjoy other activities at Kialla Lakes that do not involve direct contact with the water.
Council recommends:
- People and pets do not enter the water.
- People who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean cold water.
- Seeking an alternative water supply for pets.
- Do not use affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes.
- Additional information on blue green algae can be found at Goulburn-Murray Water's blue-green algae webpage to be informed of the risks.
- Blue-green algae occurs naturally in waterbodies. They contain toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness, sore eyes, ears and nose, or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting.
- It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels.
- Council is continuing to monitor the situation at Kialla Lakes.
- Keep up to date with current blue-green algae warnings on Goulburn Murray Water's website or phone the GMW blue-green algae hotline on (03) 5826 3785.
- Water supplied by Council is not suitable for human consumption without first being properly treated. Human consumption includes showering, bathing, washing, cooking, ice making and drinking.
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