Te Mana Ora | Community and Public Health has issued a
health warning after potentially toxic blue-green algae
(planktonic cyanobacteria) was found in Lake Hood and its
canals.
People should avoid the Lake and animals,
particularly dogs, should not be allowed near the water
until the health warning has been lifted.
Dr Cheryl
Brunton, Medical Officer of Health of Te Mana Ora, National
Public Health Service, says the algal bloom can produce
toxins harmful to humans and animals.
“People should
avoid contact with the water until further
notice.”
“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 and please let your doctor know if
you have had contact with the lake water”, Dr Brunton
says.
No one should drink the water from the lake at
any time. Boiling the water does not remove the
toxin.
Animals that show signs of illness after coming
into contact with algal mats or scums should be taken to a
vet immediately.
Fish and shellfish can concentrate
toxins and their consumption should be avoided. If fish are
eaten, remove the gut and liver and wash in clean
water.
Further information on gathering Mahinga Kai
can be obtained below.
“When a bloom of potentially
toxic cyanobacteria is present in a lake, there is a
possibility of cyanobacteria and toxins being transported
downstream.
“People are advised to avoid contact
with the downstream water bodies,” says Dr
Brunton.
Environment Canterbury continues to monitor
the lake on a regular basis and the public will be advised
of any changes in water quality that are of public health
significance.
Facts about cyanobacteria
·
Cyanobacteria 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 details visit: https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/canterbury-region/
Or
contact Te Mana Ora 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
For
further information, contact:
communications@cdhb.health.nz
© Scoop Media
Discussion about this post