Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Warning – Toxic Algal Bloom in Selwyn/Waikirikiri River
Canterbury District Health Board’s Community and
Public Health unit have issued a health warning after
potentially toxic blue-green algae (benthic cyanobacteria)
were found in Selwyn/Waikirikiri River, downstream of the
Whitecliffs Domain near the picnic area.
People and animals, particularly dogs, should avoid the area of the Selwyn/Waikirikiri River downstream of the Whitecliffs Domain near the picnic area until the health warning has been lifted.
There are also other access points along the Selwyn/Waikirikiri River that may have cyanobacteria present and people are advised to check for the presence of cyanobacteria and avoid contact.
Dr Alistair Humphrey, Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, says the algae look like dark brown to black mats and can produce toxins harmful to people 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, visit your doctor immediately, also let your doctor know if you’ve had contact with dark brown/black algal mats or water in this area,” says Dr Humphrey.
The Selwyn District Council as the drinking water supplier are following agreed procedures and monitoring their nearby drinking water intakes.
“No-one should drink the water from the river at any time, even after boiling the water from the river, it does not remove the toxin therefore should not be consumed,” Dr Humphrey says.
Pets should be taken to a vet immediately if they are showing signs of illness after coming into contact with algal mats.
People and animals should remain out of the waterways until the warnings have been lifted.
Environment Canterbury is monitoring the sites and the public will be advised of any changes in water quality.
Facts about
cyanobacteria:
• The algae occur naturally but
can increase rapidly during warmer months.
• Algal
blooms are caused by a combination of nutrients in the water
(such as nitrogen and phosphorus), and favourable weather
conditions (e.g. increased temperature, calm
days).
• 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 visit: https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/canterbury-region/
Or contact Community and Public Health on (03) 364
1777:
https://www.cph.co.nz/your-health/recreational-water/
For more information about Mahinga Kai:
https://www.cph.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/saf0112.pdf
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.
Gordon Campbell: On bird flu, AUKUS entry fees and Cindy Lee
Labour Party: Penny Drops – But What About Seymour And Peters?
Government: PM Announces Changes To Portfolios
Family First: Just 1 In 6 Oppose ‘Three Strikes’ - Poll
Labour Party: Budget Blunder Shows Nicola Willis Could Cut Recovery Funding 
Government: Urgent Changes To System Through First RMA Amendment Bill
Peace Movement Aotearoa: Global Military Spending Increase Threatens Humanity And The Planet
