BULOKE Shire has issued a warning not to swim in Wooroonook Lakes after it detected blue green algae.
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“A sample of water collected from Wooroonook Lakes has tested positive for low levels of blue-green algae,” a Buloke Shire statement said.
“It is advisable not to swim in blue green algae affected water and to avoid any direct contact.
“Direct contact with blue green algae can cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes or itchiness; sore eyes, ears and nose or, if swallowed gastroenteritis, nausea or vomiting.”
Buloke Shire has advised that people should not eat whole fish, or shellfish or crustaceans collected from Wooroonook Lakes as Ingesting blue green algae toxins can lead to serious illness.
“People who come in contact with contaminated water should wash immediately in fresh water and seek medical advice if experiencing illness after contact with blue green algae affected water,” the shire’s statement said.
“Any fish harvested from blue green algae affected water should have gills and guts removed prior to cooking.
“The type of algae affecting Wooroonook Lakes produces toxins that can concentrate in shellfish and crustaceans and also accumulate in the liver and internal organs of fish.”
Pet owners should prevent pets from drinking or having direct contact with contaminated water.
Buloke shire was advised that Visitors to the area are advised that they can still enjoy other recreational activities such as bushwalking, boating and sightseeing around the lake.
Buloke Shire Council staff will continue to monitor the algal bloom through visual inspection and laboratory analysis of samples.
For more information, call Buloke Shire public health officer Melissa Wilson on 1300 520 520.