The Kansas Department of Health and Environment adds the Thayer Old City Lake to the most recent blue-green algae watch list.

The Thayer Old City Lake was added to the “Watch Status” list on Friday. This means that a harmful algae bloom is possible and may be present in the water. The harmful algae may look like foam, scum or paint floating in the water and may be blue, bright green, brown, or red in color. Those using the Thayer Old City Lake are advised to avoid areas of algae accumulation and swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged. Boating and fishing remain safe, but direct contact with the water should be avoided. Any fish caught should be cleaned thoroughly with potable water, and the fillet portion only should be eaten.

Symptoms of exposure to blue-green algae may include rash, vomiting, fever, sore throat, and headache.