Cyanobacteria mats are now exposed on the Tukituki River, as river levels drop, and people are urged to keep dogs and children away.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Nicholas Jones said the bloom was likely to be toxic to people and animals.

Warning signs would be put up at affected areas but people were urged to avoid contact with the cyanobacteria mats and to keep animals away.

For Information https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/swimming

WHAT ARE CYANOBACTERIA?

Cyanobacteria are single celled creatures that live in water environments. Cyanobacteria have characteristics in common with both bacteria and algae. In warm nutrient rich conditions free-floating cyanobacteria cells can multiply quickly to form what are known as algal blooms. Large numbers of Cyanobacteria can also grow as mats on river and lake beds and these mats can sometimes detach and float to the surface. Some cyanobacteria species produce toxins (cyanotoxins), which pose a risk to humans and animals when consumed in drinking water or by direct contact during recreational activities.

© Scoop Media