13 February 2008

General Swimming warning

Hawke’s Bay’s District Health Board Medical Officer of Health, Dr Caroline McElnay, today issued a warning to the public that, due to contamination, they should not swim in the:

• Maraetotara Lagoon.
• Waipuka Stream.
• Kairakau Lagoon.
• Lake Tutira.
• Waipatiki Lagoon.
• Puhokio Stream.

Monitoring by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has identified high levels of E.coli in water samples taken on 11.2.08. The levels significantly exceed the maximum levels recommended in the Recreational Water Guidelines and indicate that, at the time of sampling, excessive amounts of faecal matter, either animal or human in the water.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council will take further samples and the Central Hawke’s Bay and Hastings District Councils will undertake an assessment of the waterways and put up warning signs. Once levels return to normal a further notice will be issued.

Recent heavy rain is also likely to contribute to the contamination, and Dr McElnay says people should avoid all freshwater recreational waterways such as lagoons, streams, and rivers for at least three days after heavy rain. Beaches can also pose a health risk as contaminants are flushed down rivers to the coast.

The earlier warnings regarding the presence of blue green algae in the Tukituki River and Lake Tutira are also in place.

All water should be checked before swimming to see that the water is clear- generally a sign that it is free from contamination. Dr McElnay says “A quick test is can you see your feet when knee deep in the water, alternatively take the kids to the local swimming pool to cool off instead.”

People can phone the Safe Swimming Line - (06) 878 1368 - or check the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council website www.hbrc.govt.nz. for the latest water quality information.

ENDS

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