Blue-green algae

Blue-green algae may cause poisoning symptoms. Do not swim if there is blue-green algae in the water, and do not use the water for washing.

Common symptoms caused by blue-green algae:

• Skin conditions, including tingling of lips and rash; and
• Flu-like symptoms, including blocked nose, headache and abdominal symptoms, which usually begin within 3 to 5 hours of coming into contact with blue-green algae. Typically, symptoms do not persist for longer than a few days.

Treatment:

• Rinse skin with clean water
• Take painkillers or antipyretics, if necessary