Health alert issued for Rockford Lake near Beatrice

Nebraska health officials are warning people to stay out of Rockford Lake southeast of Beatrice because of toxic blue-green algae blooms.

Officials said in a news release Friday that the alert was issued following tests of the lake's water.

Skin exposed to the toxin can develop rashes and blisters, and drinking tainted water could cause headaches, nausea and muscle pain.

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted advising the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed. Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is warned to use caution and avoid exposure to the water.

Toxic algae alerts also continue at Holmes Lake in Lincoln and Maple Creek Recreation Area Lake in Colfax County. An alert for Kirkman's Cove in Richardson County has ended.