Media Release 10 July 2009

Health warning lifted for Lake Rotorua, Ohau Channel, Okere Arm and Kaituna River

The health warning issued on 20 April 2009 for Lake Rotorua, Ohau Channel, Okere Arm and the full length of the Kaituna River, has been lifted by the Medical Officer of Health.

Weekly monitoring of these areas has confirmed the algal bloom has fallen back to safe levels.

Routine monitoring will continue and good up-to-date information on recreational water quality is available on the Environment Bay of Plenty website www.envbop.govt.nz/water/water.asp

“As we have many recreational waters in the area, the sampling points are limited. Blooms can also occur quite quickly in the right conditions, so it is always safest to check the water before you get in.” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health. “Look before you leap; if the water looks discoloured, smells unusual, or if there is scum on the surface of lakes or on the beds of rivers, swim or play somewhere else”

Key messages:

If recreational water becomes contaminated it can cause a health risk.

The public is advised to avoid swimming in rivers or lakes if the water looks murky or has a musty smell. If in doubt – go somewhere else.

Recreational water can become contaminated by farm and urban runoff at any time but in particular for up to 48 hours (two days) after heavy or prolonged rain.

For further information go to Toi Te Ora Public Health Service (www.toiteorapublichealth.govt.nz) or Environment Bay of Plenty (www.envbop.govt.nz) websites.

For up to date information on health warnings visit www.toiteorapublichealth.govt.nz or call Toi Te Ora Public Health Service on 0800 221 555.

ENDS

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