Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Work smarter with a Pro licence Learn More

News Video | Policy | GPs | Hospitals | Medical | Mental Health | Welfare | Search

 

Reminder to avoid swimming for 48 hours after heavy rain

Reminder to avoid swimming for 48 hours after heavy rain

With the heavy rain in much of the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts, the local Medical Officer of Health would like to remind the public of the standard public health advice to always avoid swimming in streams, rivers and beaches for 48 hours after heavy rain.

“After heavy rain there is likely to be contamination from rural and urban run-off” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer of Health for Toi Te Ora Public Health. “To avoid illnesses such as diarrhoea, vomiting, skin infections or ear infections, it’s best to avoid swimming in rivers, streams, beaches and harbour areas for at least 48 hours after heavy rainfall events,” says Dr de Wet.

In some areas, especially in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, there has been surface flooding. Dr de Wet advises residents to avoid contact with surface flood water as it may be contaminated with farm run off or possibly septic tank and sewage overflows. “It is especially important to ensure children don’t play in or swim in surface flood water as it can contain hidden hazards as well as causing illnesses,” says Dr de Wet.

For general public health advice related to flooding visit www.toiteora.govt.nz/flooding

ENDS

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

Are you getting our free newsletter?

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.

© Scoop Media

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading
 
 
 
Culture Headlines | Health Headlines | Education Headlines

 
 
 
 
 
 

LATEST HEADLINES

  • CULTURE
  • HEALTH
  • EDUCATION
 
 
  • Wellington
  • Christchurch
  • Auckland
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.