Blue-green algae at Lakeside Country Park
Visitors to Lakeside, Eastleigh are advised to avoid contact with the water in the two fishing lakes due to the occurrence of a blue-green algal bloom.
The Council and the Environment Agency recommends that people avoid the algal bloom as it can cause ill health such as dermatitis, eye irritation, rashes, blistering, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and nausea through skin, eye contact or if swallowed.
Should anyone believe that they have been affected by blue-green algae, they should seek medical advice or in the case of pets, contact with blue-green algae should be treated as a veterinary emergency.
Blue-green algae is a natural component of a freshwater ecosystem. Periods of warm weather followed by heavy rain and then further warm, still conditions cause blue-green algae to appear suddenly. There is no way of removing the algae from the water once it is established.
Signs instructing visitors to avoid contact with the algae and advised people and dogs not to enter the water are already in place on-site. The water sports lake is currently clear, testing is being carried out regularly and pre-hired activities are continuing as normal although this could change at any time. Please be reminded that swimming is not permitted for the public.
The Council is monitoring the situation closely and will keep the public informed through its website and social media channels.