People are advised to avoid direct contact with the water along the Macintyre River from Toomelah to Goondiwindi, after a red alert warning for toxic blue-green algae was issued.
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WaterNSW issued the red alert for the Macintyre River at Boggabilla, Toomelah and Goondiwindi on Wednesday afternoon.
Areas upstream past Toomelah to downstream past Goondiwindi are affected as a result of a mixture of favourable conditions, which includes still or low-flowing water, abundant sunlight and sufficient levels of nutrients.
A red alert (high level) warning means people should not undertake recreational activities where they may come into direct contact with the water such as swimming, showering and washing. Contact with the water may also pose a threat to livestock and pets.
Stock and domestic users in this stretch of the Macintyre River should exercise a high level of caution and seek alternate water supplies. Park users along the Macintyre River should watch their pets closely and not let them drink or enter the water. Stock and domestic users further along the river should apply caution and inspect water sources for algae scums.
Town water supplies remain safe as the treatment processes will remove the toxins. People are advised not to enter the water, not to drink untreated water or bathe in water drawn from the river while this red alert level warning is in place.
Boiling the water will not remove algal toxins. If consumed without appropriate treatment, it may cause gastroenteritis and other health conditions. Skin and eye irritations may occur after contact with the water.
Blue-green algae usually appear as green paint-like scums on the water, near the edges, or as greenish clumps throughout the water. It makes the water appear dirty, green or discoloured and generally has a strong musty or earthy odour.
People should not eat mussels or crayfish from red alert warning areas. Any fish caught should be cleaned and washed thoroughly in uncontaminated water and any internal organs disposed of before consumption.
It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels. Regular monitoring will continue and the alert will be lifted as soon as the high levels of algae dissipate. People who believe they may have been affected by blue-green algae are advised to seek medical advice.
Updates about blue-green algae blooms and red level warning areas can be obtained by calling 1800 999 457 or visiting www.waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae
