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Health warning for Lake Whangape lifted
Health warning for Lake Whangape lifted
The health warning issued in November 2012 for Lake Whangape has now been lifted, after two consecutive tests showed cyanobacterial levels to be once again below the warning level.
However, lake users should continue to use common sense at Whangape, as some areas within this large lake may well still have high cyanobacterial levels, said medical officer of health Dr Dell Hood.
Test results represent the situation at the time the sample was taken, and in that place only, and must never be used as more than a guide. If the water looks cloudy and discoloured, contact with it should still be avoided.
This leaves only Lake Waikare with a cyanobacterial health warning in force. Waahi, Hakanoa, and Ngaroto, the other lakes that are tested regularly, all currently remain below the warning level for cyanobacteria. This is the typical pattern during the winter when temperatures are low and sunlight is limited.
Cyanobacteria are a form of algae which can produce toxins harmful to the health of humans and animals exposed to or swallowing the water where the algae are growing.
Testing is carried out by Waikato Regional Council monthly during the warmer months, and every two months during winter. The lakes which are tested may indicate, to some extent, cyanobacterial levels in other shallow lakes in the region.
“During blooms, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water. Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Hood.
“Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins. If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.
“If people still choose to use the lakes when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” she said.
Symptoms include rash, skin and eye irritation; allergy symptoms such as hayfever and asthma; and possibly stomach upsets including diarrhoea and vomiting.
These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water. Long-term exposure to cyanobacterial toxins may cause additional health risks.
Waikato Regional Council no longer routinely tests Lake Kainui; however, caution is still advised for users of this lake because of its history of cyanobacterial blooms.
Test results should be used for general guidance only, as cyanobacteria and their toxins are not evenly spread through any lake and may be concentrated in some areas by wind and water movements. Cyanobacterial blooms can happen very quickly when conditions for growth are favourable.
Waikato DHB’s Population Health would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Health advice is also available from Population Health on (07) 839 8899 in and out of hours.
Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils and Waikato Regional Council.
ENDS
Waikato District Health Board
Healthy People. Excellent Care
Waikato District Health Board (DHB) employs over 6500 people and plans, funds and provides hospital and health services to more than 391,770 people in a region covering eight per cent of New Zealand.
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