Health Warning Lifted For Algal Bloom In The South Bank Tributary Of The Waiau-Uwha River Above Waiau Bridge

Recent water testing at the South Bank Tributary of the
Waiau-Uwha River above Waiau Bridge has shown the quantity
of potentially toxic algae (benthic cyanobacteria) in the
river has reduced and concentrations are now below levels
that are of concern to public health.

Dr Cheryl
Brunton, Medical Officer of Health for the National Public
Health Service, says Environment Canterbury’s sampling at
the South Bank Tributary of the Waiau-Uwha River above Waiau
Bridge will continue on a monthly basis.

“The public
will be informed if testing shows that concentrations have
increased and there is a risk to public health again”, Dr
Brunton says.

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.

· If a warning is in place, people and
animals should not drink the water from the lake at any
time, even boiled water.

· Exposure to an algal bloom
can 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
lake water when there is a health warning in
place.

For further details visit: https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/canterbury-region/

Or
contact Te Mana Ora | 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

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