Goulburn-Murray Water is warning customers and the public to avoid direct contact with water in all Loddon Valley Irrigation Area channels, after monitoring detected high levels of blue-green algae.
This extends the warning issued on February 9 for Loddon Valley Irrigation Area channels east of the Loddon River and the East Loddon Water District.
Blue-green algae occur naturally in bodies of water.
They contain toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Characteristic signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness; sore eyes, ears and nose; or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting.
G-MW water quality coordinator Bianca Atley said it was not possible to predict how long the algae would remain at…
