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Health warning for SH1 on Hurunui River lifted
MEDIA RELEASE
April 3, 2014
Health warning for SH1 on Hurunui River lifted
The Community and Public Health division of the Canterbury District Health Board has lifted its algal bloom health warning issued for State Highway One (SH1) on the Hurunui River / Rakahuri. This was issued on the 26 February 2014.
Recent surveys at SH1 on the Hurunui River / Rakahuri have shown the cover of potentially toxic blue-green algal mats (benthic cyanobacteria) in the river has decreased and cover is now below the levels that are of concern to public health.
Dr Alistair Humphrey, Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, says Environment Canterbury’s sampling for the summer season has now stopped and therefore the public will need to be aware of the potential for algal blooms themselves.
“The growth of algal mats is, however, less likely because of the cooler weather and the seasonal nature of the blooms,” Dr Alistair Humphrey says.
“Environment Canterbury will resume sampling again next summer when there is an increased likelihood of cyanobacterial growth.”
Facts about cyanobacteria:
• Appears as dark brown/black
mats attached to rocks along the riverbed.
• The algae
occur naturally but can increase rapidly during warmer
months.
• It often has a strong musty smell and algal
toxin concentrations can vary over short periods with
changing environmental conditions.
• Although high
river levels will remove the algal bloom, detached mats can
accumulate along the shore and increase the risk of exposure
to toxins.
• If a health warning is in place avoid
contact with the water.
• Although district or city
councils may place warning signs, these may not be seen at
the numerous river access points, hence the need for people/
dog-walkers to treat every low-flowing river
cautiously.
• Exposure to an algal bloom can cause skin
rashes, nausea, stomach cramps, 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 lake water when
there is a health warning in place.
For further information visit http://ecan.govt.nz/services/online-services/monitoring/swimming-water-quality/Pages/river-warnings.aspx
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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