Reminder to avoid swimming for 48 hours after heavy rain
With the heavy rain in much of the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts, the local Medical Officer of Health would like to
remind the public of the standard public health advice to always avoid swimming in streams, rivers and beaches for 48
hours after heavy rain.
“After heavy rain there is likely to be contamination from rural and urban run-off” says Dr Neil de Wet, Medical Officer
of Health for Toi Te Ora Public Health. “To avoid illnesses such as diarrhoea, vomiting, skin infections or ear
infections, it’s best to avoid swimming in rivers, streams, beaches and harbour areas for at least 48 hours after heavy
rainfall events,” says Dr de Wet.
In some areas, especially in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, there has been surface flooding. Dr de Wet advises residents to
avoid contact with surface flood water as it may be contaminated with farm run off or possibly septic tank and sewage
overflows. “It is especially important to ensure children don’t play in or swim in surface flood water as it can contain
hidden hazards as well as causing illnesses,” says Dr de Wet.
For general public health advice related to flooding visit www.toiteora.govt.nz/flooding
ENDS