The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued blue-green algae warnings for six lakes in the state.

The warnings include Lake Afton in Sedgwick County and the Harvey County East Lake.  The warning means that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure.   Eagle Lake in Bel Aire is under a blue-green algae watch, which means algae has been detected and a harmful bloom is present or likely to develop.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache. If someone or their pets come into contact with algae, they should rinse with clean, fresh water.   Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at the web site kdhe.ks.gov/1163.

KDHE recommends precautions to take for lakes under a warning:

• Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.
• Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
• Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
• Water contact should be avoided.
• Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
• Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
• If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
• Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.