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Algal bloom in Lake Forsyth/Te Roto o Wairewa
January 18, 2017
Health Warning - Algal bloom in Lake Forsyth/Te Roto o Wairewa
The Community and Public Health division of Canterbury District Health Board has issued a health warning after potentially toxic blue-green algae (planktonic cyanobacteria) was found in Lake Forsyth/Te Roto o Wairewa.
People and animals, particularly dogs, should avoid Lake Forsyth/Te Roto o Wairewa until the health warning has been lifted.
Dr Ramon Pink Canterbury Medical Officer of Health says the algal bloom can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals; people should avoid contact with the water until further notice.
“Exposure may cause skin rashes, nausea, stomach cramps, and tingling and numbness around the mouth and fingertips. If you experience any of these symptoms visit your doctor immediately and please let your doctor know if you have had contact with the lake water,” Dr Pink says.
“No one should drink the water from the lake at any time. Boiling the water does not remove the toxin.”
The type of cyanobacteria currently present in high concentrations is Anabaena, which typically forms green globules that float in the water column.
“Animals that show signs of illness after coming into contact with algal mats should be taken to a vet immediately,” Dr Pink says.
Consumption of fish and shellfish should also be avoided because they can concentrate toxins, he says.
“If fish are eaten, remove the gut and liver and wash in clean water.”
Environment Canterbury monitors the lake weekly during summer and the public will be advised of any changes in water quality that are of public health significance.
Facts about cyanobacteria:
• The algae occur naturally but can
increase rapidly during warmer months.
•
• If the
water is cloudy, discoloured, or has small globules
suspended in it, avoid all contact.
•
• Not all
cyanobacterial blooms are visible to the naked eye and
toxins can persist after the blooms
disappear.
•
• Cyanobacterial concentrations can
change quickly with changing environmental conditions (e.g.
wind). If a health warning is in place avoid contact with
the water.
For further information visit https://www.ecan.govt.nz/your-region/your-environment/water/swimming-water-quality/
Or contact Community and Public Health on (03) 364 1777.
ENDS
Canterbury DHB
CDHB
Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) is a Christchurch, New Zealand based hospital and healthcare provider for the
Canterbury region of New Zealand. Our region extends from Kekerengu in the North, to Rangitata in the South and Arthurs Pass in the West and comprises the six Territorial Local Authorities of Kaikoura, Hurunui, Waimakariri, Christchurch City, Selwyn and Ashburton.
We collaborate with other health and disability organisations, stakeholders and our community to decide what health and disability services are needed and how to best use the funding we receive from Government to improve, promote and protect the health, wellbeing and independence of our population.
At the Canterbury DHB, our vision is to improve the health and wellbeing of people living in Canterbury.
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