Toxic blue-green algae found in river

Visitors are being advised to avoid contact with the water in a river over fears it could contain toxic blue-green algae.

The bacteria, which can be harmful to humans, has been reported along the River Hamble in Hampshire, Eastleigh Borough Council said.

The Environment Agency (EA) has warned that the algae can be fatal to animals if ingested, and people are being urged not to allow their dogs to enter the water.

It tends to appear after warm weather and can cause skin irritation, rashes, blisters, eye irritation, nausea and diarrhoea

According to the EA areas where there is a bloom will have water that appears less clear and may look green, blue-green or greenish-brown.

Scums can form during calm weather when several bloom forming species rise to the surface, which can look like paint, mousse or small clumps.

It advises people to contact the EA if they suspect an area to have blue-green algae.

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