Source: Waikato District Health Board
Health warning issued for Lakes Arapuni and Whangape and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Kainui, and Rotokauri.
A precautionary health warning has been issued today for Lake Arapuni, based upon scientific observation and monitoring of the water quality, which suggests a recent rise in the concentration of cyanobacteria.
A Public Health warning has also been issued for Lake Whangape which has seen a dramatic rise in measured cyanobacteria biovolume to 150mm3/L.
Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.
Dr Elizabeth Becker, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where Public Health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.
“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Becker.
“If people still choose to use the lakes when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” she said.
Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.
These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.
Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins. If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.
Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.
Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.
Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial health warnings is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/
