Auckland Regional Public Health Service
MEDIA ADVISORY
Friday, 7 August 2009

Important public health advice for Hauraki Gulf and Great Barrier Island

Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is unable to rule out the risk to the public for the Hauraki Gulf and Great Barrier Island until results from testing are received.

ARPHS is confirming the following advice to the public for the Hauraki Gulf, including Great Barrier Island:

• People should avoid contact with sea water and sea life
• People should avoid exercising pets along beaches
• Children should not be taken to beaches
• People should not collect or shellfish, or eat fish/seafood from these areas
• People should cease fishing, swimming and diving activity

ARPHS is continuing to work with Department of Conservation (DOC), local and regional councils, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Biosecurity NZ (MAFBNZ) and Ministry of Fisheries (MoF).

ARPHS will continue to advise the public on any public health precautions that may be required.

Pet owners are advised to contact their local veterinary clinic should their pet develop symptoms after visiting the beach. People developing any symptoms within approximately an hour of exposure to sea water or sea life should see their GP and inform ARPHS on (09) 6234600.

Questions relating to unusual numbers of dead fish or other marine life can be directed to: Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Biosecurity (MAFBNZ): 0800809966 or Department of Conservation (DOC) 0800 362 468

ENDS

© Scoop Media