City of Albany posts public health warning to avoid swimming in waterways after heavy rainfall contamination

The City of Albany has warned against swimming in Albany’s waterways for a short time because recent heavy rainfall may have contaminated the water.

The city issued a public health warning on Tuesday advising that the water may contain elevated bacteria, viruses and debris due to stormwater run-off contamination.

“It is important to be aware of the health risks of swimming in these waters which can lead to a range of illnesses including gastrointestinal, eye, ear and throat infections,” the notice reads.

The warning advises residents and visitors to avoid swimming after more than 10mm of rainfall, not to enter discoloured, murky or smelly water and to avoid warm, stagnant water or areas near stormwater entry points.

It also recommends not to swim with open wounds, infections or if you’re unwell, and avoid putting the head under water.

People are asked not to harvest or eat any shellfish until water has been clear for a couple of weeks after the rainfall event.

Further information on individual Great Southern beach safety grading is available on the Department of Health website.