RUSSELL COUNTY — Fossil Lake in Russell County remained under a public health advisory due to blue-green algae on Friday. The warning was issued Friday by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and  Parks.

Fossil Lake was added to the warning list on Aug. 22.

The water recreation season in Kansas officially runs from April 1 to Oct. 31, as do the Harmful Algae Blooms (HAB) response program’s active operations. Kansans should remain vigilant while engaging in activities taking place in or on the water, such as swimming, boating and fishing.

A 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 dogs 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 you, or your pets, come into contact with algae, rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported as soon as possible at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.