Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora has issued a health
warning after extremely high levels of paralytic shellfish
toxins were found in routine samples taken from Port Levy |
Koukourarata.
People should avoid the area and
animals, particularly dogs, should not be allowed near the
water until the health warning has been lifted.
Dr
Imogen Evans, Public Health Medicine Specialist for the
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.”
“The bloom appears to be
limited to Port Levy | Koukourarata, but people should still
take care in nearby bays as toxins could travel to other
areas.”
“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 them know if you have
had contact with the water”.
New Zealand Food Safety
(NZFS) has also issued a public health warning advising the
public not to collect or consume shellfish gathered from the
northern side of Banks Peninsula. The warning extends from
New Brighton to the northern side of Hickory
Bay.
Anyone who becomes ill after eating shellfish
from an area where a public health warning has been issued
should phone Healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or seek
medical attention immediately. Please also contact your
nearest public health service and keep any leftover
shellfish in case it can be tested.
For further
details visit: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/news/media-releases/shellfish-biotoxin-warning-for-canterbury
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