HARMFUL blue green algae has been detected at Muckross Bay, Kesh, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has revealed. 

The local authority has erected signage at Muckross Bay to warn visitors of the presence of blue green algae and to advise that adults, children and animals should avoid contact with the algae and the water close to it due to its harmful effects.

Swallowing the water can cause stomach upsets or severe illness to people and death to animals.

Contact with the water or the blue green algae can also cause rashes and skin problems.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council said it routinely monitors lakes and rivers in the district with regard to water quality.

The council also said it will continue to closely monitor the blue green algae at Muckross Bay with warning signage remaining in place until the algae has cleared.

Any concerns regarding blue green algae in the district should be reported directly to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s Environmental Health Service on 0300 303 1777.