CENTRALIA, IL — Dangerous cyanobacteria, sometimes known as *blue-green algae or harmful algal blooms (HABS), were found Wednesday in Centralia Lake.

The cyanobacteria is caused by dry weather in the last several weeks and can be harmful to people and sometimes even fatal to small children and pets.

People are urged to not swim, wade or come into contact with the water, scum, foam or algae at Centralia Lake.

If you or your family members experience illness after swimming or playing in the water, you’re urged to seek medical attention.

Recreational waters containing cyanobacteria at levels exceeding the state’s guidelines for issuing a Health Advisory can put you at risk of various adverse health effects including upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea.

Exposure to concentrations of cyanotoxins higher than the state’s guideline values could potentially result in more serious illnesses, including liver or kidney damage.

Animals may be vulnerable to adverse health effects of cyanobacteria name at the detected levels indicated above. Contact a veterinarian if animals show signs of illness.

If you, your family members or your animals have experienced adverse (cyanobacteria-related) health effects, please contact the Marion County Health Department on their website at marioncountyhealthdept.org or call Director Melissa Mallow at 548-3878.

The City of Centralia is working closely with local and state public health and emergency response agencies to address the situation and will post updated information if there are any changes to the conditions of this recreational closure.

For more information, please contact the Centralia Manager’s Office at 618-533-7623.