BLOOMINGTON – Visitors to the Paynetown and Fairfax State Recreation Areas are advised to avoid contact with algae, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Cell counts at both beaches exceeded 100,000 cells/mL in the most recent sample; both beaches will be retested in two weeks.
While swimming and boating are still permitted, swimmers should avoid swallowing water and should take a shower or bath with warm soapy water after contact with lake water.
Do not allow your pets to swim or drink water where algae are present.
Exposure to blue-green algae during swimming, wading and water-skiing can lead to rashes, skin, eye irritation, and effects such as nausea, stomach aches, and tingling in fingers and toes. After you swim, wade or ski, be sure to shower with warm soapy water.
Some beaches at eight other Indiana lakes, including Cagles Mill Lake, Hardy Lake, and Cecil M. Harden Lake, are also under advisory for recent algae blooms.
For more info on blue-green algae click here.
