Greater Shepparton City Council is warning the public to avoid direct contact with water in Kialla Lakes and Lake Bartlett, Tatura, due to high levels of blue-green algae detected in the first lake.
Blue-green algae, which occurs naturally in waterbodies, contains toxins 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.
Council has advised water users from Kialla Lakes and Lake Bartlett to seek an alternative water supply.
Kialla Lakes will remain open to the public, with warning signs positioned around the first lake.
Lake Bartlett will also remain open to the public, with warning signs in place.
According to the council’s recommendation, activities that don’t require direct contact with water can proceed as usual.
However, people and pets are advised not to enter the water and should opt for an alternative water source for their pets.
Moreover, they should avoid using the affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering.
Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes.
People who come into contact with the water should wash affected skin immediately in clean, cold water.
It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels, but council has said they are continuing to monitor the situation at both bodies of water.
For additional information on blue-green algae, visit https://www.g-mwater.com.au/water-operations/bga