PUBLIC HEALTH WARNING

MEDIA RELEASE

1800 Tuesday, 4 August 2009

Public warned to take care on Auckland beaches

The public are urged to take care following recent reports of dog and sea life deaths on eastern beaches and within the Hauraki Gulf. Various agencies are investigating these deaths to determine the cause.

Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) will be unable to rule out risk to the public until results are received.  Therefore, ARPHS strongly recommends that the public follows this advice:

·         People should avoid contact with sea water and sea life in the Hauraki Gulf

·         People should avoid exercising pets along Hauraki Gulf beaches

·         Children should not be taken to Hauraki Gulf beaches

·         People should not collect shellfish from the Hauraki Gulf

Pet owners are advised to contact their local veterinary clinic should their pet develop symptoms from exposure on the beach. People developing any symptoms within approximately an hour of exposure to sea water or sea life should also see their GP and inform ARPHS on 623 4600.

Further questions relating to public health issues and water safety can be directed to: Auckland Regional Public Health Service 623 4600.

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