Maitland Council is monitoring the area’s swimming holes, following a bloom of potentially toxic blue green algae.
Water samples taken at Walka Water Works, Telarah Lagoon and Rathluba Lagoon indicate high levels of the bacteria, which may have been boosted by higher nutrient levels in the water and warmer weather.
Residents have been advised to avoid swimming in the algae, which can be seen floating on the surface of the water in a thick paint-like consistency or as small green floating dots.
Exposure to the algae can cause severe stomach upsets, nausea and skin irritation.
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