WaterNSW has issued a Red Alert warning for high levels of taste and odour causing blue-green algae for the Murray River at Merbein.
The Red Alert warning applies only to untreated water at the identified location and will remain in place until monitoring and test results confirm that the risk is sufficiently diminished. People should avoid consuming untreated water from this waterbody and prevent pets and livestock from drinking this water.
People should avoid recreational activities such as swimming, water skiing, canoeing and any other activity that brings them into contact with this waterbody until the red alert warning is lifted.
Boiling the water does not remove algal toxins.
People who suspect they have been affected by blue-green algae should seek medical advice.
People should not eat mussels or crayfish from red alert warning areas.
A precautionary approach to eating fin fish from red alert warning areas is advised.
Updates and information about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can be obtained by visiting https://www.waternsw.com.au/water-services/water-quality/algae
Image: https://pixabay.com/photos/sea-waves-nature-light-ripples-7484743/
