A blue-green algae warning has been issued for the Rochester Irrigation Area and part of the Central Goulburn Irrigation Area.
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Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is warning costumers and the public in areas like Rochester, Tatura, Mooroopna, Kyabram and Echuca to avoid direct contact with water from the irrigation channels after high levels of blue-green algae was detected.
Blue-green algae occurs naturally in bodies of water but contains toxins that are harmful to humans and animals.
Characteristic signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness, or sore eyes, ears and nose.
Anyone who comes into contact with the water should wash the affected skin immediately in clean cold water.
It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels, but GMW said it is continuing to monitor the situation.
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Tara Cosoleto
Journalist covering courts and general news at the Bendigo Advertiser.
Journalist covering courts and general news at the Bendigo Advertiser.
