Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Health Warning – Algal Bloom in Lake Forsyth/ Te Wairewa
November 3, 2011
Health Warning – Algal Bloom in Lake Forsyth/ Te Wairewa
The Community and Public Health division of Canterbury District Health Board have issued a health warning this week after toxic blue-green algae (planktonic cyanobacteria) were found in Lake Forsyth/ Te Wairewa.
People should stay out of the water at this site until the health warnings have been lifted. Toxic algae are particularly dangerous for dogs, so they should be kept away from the water.
Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Alistair Humphrey says the algal bloom can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals.
“Exposure may cause skin rashes, nausea, stomach cramps, tingling and numbness around the mouth and fingertips. If you experience any of these symptoms after contact with contaminated water, visit your doctor immediately,” Dr Humphrey says.
“No one should drink the water from the lake at any time, even if it has been boiled because boiling does not remove the toxin.”
Animals should be taken to a vet immediately if they come into contact with water contaminated by the algal bloom or if they display any unusual symptoms.
Fish and shellfish can concentrate toxins and their consumption should be avoided.
Environment Canterbury monitors this site weekly during summer and the public will be advised of any changes in water quality that are of public health significance.
Facts about cyanobateria:
• 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 click here.
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.
Keith Newman: Revised Edition Of Ratana Biography Highlights Lasting Legacy
Environmental Defence Society: Groundhog Day, New Book Shows History Is Repeating Itself
NZEI Te Riu Roa: Mandated Single Approach To Reading Will Not Work
The Conversation: Could The School Phone Ban Work?
Public Health Communication Centre: To Avoid A Measles Epidemic, Aotearoa Must Close The ‘Immunity Gap’
Heritage New Zealand: Kid-friendly Archaeology Resource Kit Launched As Part Of Archaeology Week