“Toxic Seafoam’: Health warning for Easter holidays for South Australians

Sunseekers are being warned of a toxic micro-algae milkshake across this Australian coastline.

Low swell and warmer weather over the last month has meant a toxic algae outbreak has remained at some of Australia’s most pristine beaches.

Across South Australia’s shoreline, micro-algae called karenia mikinotoi, is causing a toxic sea foam that has prompted health warnings from authorities ahead of Easter.

Although many have said the froth resembles a milkshake, it is much more deadly as thousands of dead cockles as well as other fish and shellfish are littered on beaches from Goolwa to Victor Harbour.

It was first noticed by surfers about 100km from Adelaine, at Waitpinga, just over a month ago.

A sludge-coloured foam and several dead fish have been sighted on the beaches of Waitpinga Point to Victor Harbor, causing a stir in the community. Picture: Facebook

The EPA has since reported that the algae has been seen all the way from Cape Jervis to Encounter bay.

Alexandrina Council is warning the public to not touch or eat any dead sea life found on affected beaches.

Not quite fatal, human exposure to the sea foam can still cause respiratory and eye irritation, as well as skin rashes for some.

For those who accidentally ingest the sea foam, an upset stomach and flu-like symptoms are likely to manifest.

A sludge-coloured foam have been sighted on the South Australian coastline. Picture: Facebook

Several dead fish have been sighted on the beaches of Waitpinga Point to Victor Harbor, causing a stir in the community. Picture: Facebook

In a stroke of bad luck to those with waterfront views, the particles can infiltrate the air and drift into beachside properties.

SA Health’s Principal Water Quality Adviser Dr David Cunliffe said there is “no long term effects” for the public who cme into contact with the micro-foam.

“If people do experience symptoms, such as sore eyes and respiratory symptoms including a cough, they should move away from the foreshore, the symptoms will resolve in hours,” he said to 7NEWS.

It is still safe for people to fish from beaches which are affected, according to Mr Cunliffe.

Dogs are also still free to enjoy this weekends good weather with a beachside run and swim, as this particular algae does not affect canines.

“It’s fine to take your dog for a walk, when you go down to the beach,” Mr Cunliffe said.

Originally published as “Toxic Seafoam’: Health warning for Easter holidays for South Australians