Substantial areas of Northern Ireland are now affected by the presence of blue green algae that can be fatal to dogs and potentially challenging to human health.
Mid Ulster District Council is the latest to confirm they have identified the toxic algae in their vicinity, at Ballyronan Marina and Battery Harbour.
Fermanagh and Omagh District Council have taken down warning signs about the water in the Lough Melvin area and swapped them for signage urging the public stay away from the water and the shoreline. They have identified three types of blue green algae in the lough and in decomposing matter on land. Six dogs have died after visiting the area in recent days.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council have also confirmed the presence of the algae following tests after nine-month-old dog, Harley, died after walking on the shores of Lough Neagh last month. Two dogs died last May in similar circumstances.
Read more: NI Water wants dogs on leads at local beauty spots
Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria that produces harmful toxins which take effect when eaten, inhaled or skin contact is made. In recent days eight dogs have died after being in areas now confirmed to be affected by the algae.
It can also create issues for humans and contact with affected water can cause skin irritation, mild respiratory effects and hayfever-like symptoms. Ingesting toxins can also cause gastroenteritis symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, fever and headaches and the toxins can also have an effect on the liver and the nervous system.
A spokesperson for Mid Ulster council said: "Following tests carried out yesterday, Tuesday 6 June, Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has confirmed a presence of blue-green algae at Ballyronan Marina and Battery Harbour.
"It is advised that all contact with the water is avoided until further notice. Farmers and pet owners should also ensure that their animals do not have access to this water, as the algae can produce toxins that are highly poisonous and often fatal to pets.
"The Council has erected signage warning the public of the presence of the algae at these sites and advise that dogs are kept on leads at all times.
"For further information and advice please contact the Council’s Environmental Health department on: 03000 132 132 or email environmentalhealth@midulstercouncil.org."
The family of Axel, an 11-month-old Saluki Lurcher cross who died 25 minutes after running on the shore at Lough Melvin, are waiting to have the results of samples of shoreline and water that they sent away. Axel died on May 31 after he licked decomposing matter on the shoreline of Lough Melvin. Unlike the other three dogs he was exercising with, he did not enter the water.
Dog owner Amanda Heslop lost her dog Mollie to an agonising death after she rolled in decomposing matter on the shoreline of Lough Melvin in Co Fermanagh.
Amanda said: "We are heartbroken by our loss, by the painful and distressing death suffered by a most wonderful little dog and we would urge anyone and everyone to steer clear of areas where they suspect this blue green algae could be present or where its presence has been confirmed. That includes the dry shore and not just the water.
"It seems our authorities do not have a proactive plan to deal with blue green algae in Northern Ireland and instead we are left to pick up the pieces when tragedy strikes and watch as they put up warning notices after the event when it's just too late."
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