9 February 2005

Lake Tutira contaminated – swimming warning

Hawke’s Bay’s District Health Board medical officer of Health, Dr Caroline McElnay, today issued a warning, advising members of the public not to swim in Lake Tutira due to contamination.

Dr McElnay says monitoring by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council identified high levels of E.coli in water samples taken on 7 February. “The levels significantly exceeded the maximum levels recommended in the Ministries of Health and Environments Recreational Water Guidelines”. The level of these bacteria indicates excessive amounts of faecal matter, either animal or human was in the water.

Further sampling will be undertaken by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council. The Hastings District Council will undertake an assessment of the waterway and put up warning signs

With the current dry weather it may be tempting to “hit” the water, however the Public Health Unit recommends that people phone the Safe Swimming Line for the latest water quality results before they set off for a day in or on the water. The number is (06) 878-1368 and the line is updated regularly with information on sites that are contaminated.

“This is definitely a good time to use a swimming pool.” Dr McElnay said.

ENDS

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