(UNDATED) – The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has issued a recreational advisory after a recent sampling shows high levels of blue-green algae also known as cyanobacteria at Lake Monroe.
The advisory is for beaches at Fairfax and Paynetown state recreation areas.
The advisory does not prohibit individuals from swimming and boating on the lakes identified the public is urged to do so with extreme caution. Those swimming or boating are advised to take a warm soapy shower after coming into contact with lake water. IDEM also advises swimmers not to swallow any water.
“Exposure to blue-green algae during recreational activities such as swimming, wading, and water-skiing may lead to rashes, skin, eye irritation, and other uncomfortable effects such as nausea, stomach aches, and tingling in fingers and toes. If you should experience any symptoms after water recreational activities, please contact your doctor,” the IDEM advisory states.
Blue-green algae can be poisonous to some animals. IDEM says not to allow pets to swim or drink where algae is present.
