Category: Health Alerts

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Cyanobacteria health warning lifted from Lake Rotokauri

Source: Waikato District Health Board

The Public Health warning issued for Lake Rotokauri at the beginning of the year has been lifted today by National Public Health Service (NPHS), after subsequent tests showed that cyanobacterial levels are below the warning level.

Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Hakanoa, Waikare, Whangape and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place, while this warning is extreme at Lake Ngā Roto.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Richard Wall recommends that for lakes with a health warning in place, “people should avoid any activity in or near these lakes that could lead to skin contact with the affected water, or the water being swallowed.”

“Toxins released by cyanobacteria can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, skin rashes, stomach upsets, and neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.”

The symptoms may not appear until sometime after contact with affected water.

“If you do come into contact with water at lakes when warnings are in place or where there were visible changes in water colour, shower and change your clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if you do not have symptoms,” adds Dr Wall.

“If you feel unwell after coming in contact with the lake you should seek health advice from your doctor or by calling Healthline on 0800 611 116. Please also report it to the NPHS Waikato office on (07) 838 2569.”

Scums formed by algal blooms are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins. If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible.

“It’s particularly important for parents to keep an eye on children if you’re down at the water as these scums can form at the edge of the lake and children will sometimes play with them.”

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, or eating algal bloom scum as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria and could become seriously ill.

To check if recreational water spots near you are safe for swimming and playing in visit https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/. Information is also available from Waikato Regional Council at https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/environment/water/algal-blooms/

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Extreme risk health warning for Lake Ngā Roto

Source: Waikato District Health Board

PUBLIC HEALTH STRONGLY ADVISES NOT TO USE THE LAKE FOR ANY RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

The Public Health warning issued on 4th December 2024 for Lake Ngā Roto, has now been escalated to extreme risk.

Waikato Medical Officer of Health Dr Liz Becker says repeat testing this week has confirmed that there has been a highly significant rise in cyanobacterial levels. As a result, the alert remains in place. Recent test results returned a 1,203 mm3/L, far higher than the Guideline Value of 1.8 mm3/L.

“The cyanobacteria currently in the lake may produce toxins which are extremely harmful and may cause serious illnesses,” Dr Becker says.

It is strongly advised not to undertake any recreational use of the lake where there could be skin contact or swallowing of lake water. Avoid all recreation on the lake including kayaking, fishing, boating and swimming.

“Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria and its related toxins,“ she says.

If you have used Lake Ngā Roto recently and have any of the following symptoms, please seek medical attention such as contacting your GP:

  • a rash
  • skin and eye irritation
  • allergy symptoms such as hayfever and asthma
  • or possibly stomach upsets including diarrhoea and vomiting

Please note, these symptoms may not appear immediately after contact with the affected water.

If you have any health problems that have developed after exposure to any of the lakes with health warnings, please ring National Public Health Service – Waikato on (07) 838 2569.

For media enquiries please contact Health NZ Media on hnzmedia@tewhatuora.govt.nz

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Meremere Wildfire, North Waikato

Source: Waikato District Health Board

The large vegetation fire near Meremere, which includes the Whangamarino wetlands is now under control. Fire and Emergency New Zealand said the fire may take some time to fully extinguish due to where it is burning in peat and wetland.

Although under control, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora says there is potential that people who are sensitive to smoke – such as those with heart or lung conditions, people who are pregnant, young children and the elderly – may experience symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath or eye, nose and throat irritation.

Dr Richard Wall, Medical Officer of Health for the National Public Health Service says exposure to smoke can worsen pre-existing health conditions such as heart and lung disease.

“People affected by the smoke should close windows and doors and reduce outdoor exercise”.

Dr Wall said residents on a roof water tank supply were advised to disconnect the pipe to their tank if a lot of ash and debris was falling to avoid water becoming contaminated.

“Only reconnect the water supply after the next heavy rain (discarding the ‘first flush’), to avoid getting ash in your drinking water.”

The experience of being exposed to an event like a fire can be distressing and it’s normal to feel anxious in situations like this. If you are feeling anxious or just need someone to talk to, you can call or text 1737 any time and you can speak to (or text) a trained counsellor free of charge or call Healthline on 0800 611 116.

If you see or smell smoke outside, you should stay inside if it is safe to do so.

Remember to:

  • Keep your windows and doors shut
  • Switch your air conditioning to ‘recirculate’
  • Air out your house when the smoke clears
  • Look out for children, older people, and others at risk
  • Keep pets inside with clean water and food. Keep pets’ bedding inside if possible.
  • Roof water supply: Disconnect the pipe to your tank if there is ash and debris on your roof, and only reconnect after the next heavy rain to avoid getting ash in your drinking water.

For information about the fire visit the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website

Media contact: hnzmedia@health.govt.nz

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Health warning of extreme risk for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake)

Source: Waikato District Health Board

HEALTH WARNING OF EXTREME RISK FOR LAKE ROTOROA (HAMILTON LAKE) – STRONGLY ADVISED NOT TO USE THE LAKE FOR ANY RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

The Public Health warning issued on 7 February 2024 for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), has now been escalated to extreme risk. This is due to a highly significant rise in cyanobacterial levels. The cyanobacteria currently in the lake may produce toxins which are extremely harmful and may cause serious illnesses or death.

It is strongly advised not to undertake any recreational use of the lake whereby skin contact or ingestion of the water may occur. Recreation uses to avoid include kayaking, fishing, boating, swimming, or physical activities around the lake.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria and its related toxins.

Lake Rotoroa, Hamilton has significant levels of cyanobacterial

If you have used Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) recently and have symptoms which include things as a rash, skin and eye irritation; allergy symptoms such as hayfever and asthma; or possibly stomach upsets including diarrhoea and vomiting, then please seek medical attention such as contacting your GP. Please note, these symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

National Public Health Service – Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the lakes with health warnings in place. Please contact on (07) 838 2569.

Please direct media enquiries to:

Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora

Email: hnzmedia@tewhatuora.govt.nz

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Ngā Roto

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Ngā Roto, and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Waikare, Hakanoa, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui.

The Public Health warning issued on 7th November 2023 for Lake Ngā Roto has now been lifted after subsequent tests showed that cyanobacterial levels are below the warning level. Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Waikare, Hakanoa, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Richard Wall, Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Wall.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Health NZ would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Arapuni

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning lifted for Lake Arapuni, and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui.

The Public Health warning issued on 23rd January 2024 for Lake Arapuni has now been lifted, after subsequent tests showed that cyanobacterial levels are below the warning level. Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Richard Wall, Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Wall.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Health NZ would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils, Waikato Regional Council or by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake)

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) and remains in place for Lakes Arapuni, Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui.

A new health warning has been issued today for Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) due to a significant rise in cyanobacteria biovolume to 24.46 mm3/L in cyanobacteria levels.

Lakes Arapuni, Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Rotokauri, Whangape and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Richard Vipond, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Vipond.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.”

“If people do come into contact with the lake when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial cell counts is available from local councils, Waikato Regional Council or by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lakes Arapuni and Whangape

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Health warning issued for Lakes Arapuni and Whangape and remains in place for Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare, Kainui, and Rotokauri.

A precautionary health warning has been issued today for Lake Arapuni, based upon scientific observation and monitoring of the water quality, which suggests a recent rise in the concentration of cyanobacteria.

A Public Health warning has also been issued for Lake Whangape which has seen a dramatic rise in measured cyanobacteria biovolume to 150mm3/L.

Lakes Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake), Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Dr Elizabeth Becker, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where Public Health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Becker.

“If people still choose to use the lakes when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” she said.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial health warnings  is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotokauri and Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake)

Source: Waikato District Health Board

CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Health warning issued for Lake Rotokauri and Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) and remains in place for Lakes Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui.

A new health warning has been issued today for Lakes Rotokauri and Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake) due to a rise in cyanobacteria biovolume to 1.85 mm3/L at Lake Rotokauri and 3.6 mm3/L at Lake Rotoroa (Hamilton Lake). Biovolume is the measure used to decide when a health warning should be issued, with the cut-off value for a health warning set at 1.8mm3/L.

Lakes Ngā Roto, Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Waikato Regional Council monitors cyanobacteria levels at Lakes Kainui, Rotokauri, Ngā Roto, Puketirini, Waikare, Whangape, Hakanoa and Waahi.

Dr Richard Wall, Te Whatu Ora Medical Officer of Health for Waikato recommends that where cyanobacteria health warnings are in place, lakes should not be used for any activity that involves skin contact with the affected water.

“Swallowing water from lakes affected by blooms should also be avoided,” said Dr Wall.

“If people still choose to use the lakes when warnings are in place, or any other lake where there are visible changes to water colour, they should shower and change their clothing as soon as possible afterwards, even if no symptoms are noticeable,” he said.

Cyanobacteria can release toxins which can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, and can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water.

Scums are a particular risk because they contain a high level of toxins.  If contact with scum does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible. This warning is particularly important for children.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial health warnings  is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/

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CYANOBACTERIAL WARNING UPDATE: Significant rise of cyanobacterial levels for Lake Ngā Roto

Source: Waikato District Health Board

Cyanobacterial levels at Lake Ngā Roto have risen to extremely high levels this week, with a consequential increase in health risk to the public. The cyanobacteria biovolume is 123mm3/L compared to the New Zealand guideline level of 1.8mm3/L.

A health warning was issued for Lake Ngā Roto on 8 November 2023. The Te Whatu Ora Waikato Public Health Service is issuing this update to warn people of this significant increase in cyanobacterial levels.

Cyanobacterial bloom at Lake Ngā Roto – image courtesy of Mark Palmer

“We strongly recommend that people avoid any recreational activities that involves contact with the water” says Dr Richard Wall, Medical Officer of Health for Waikato. “People using boats are also advised to stay off the lake, because of the risk of contact with the water”.

The predominant cyanobacterial species present in the lake is a type that is known to produce toxins in New Zealand, which can cause serious illness. The cyanobacterial bloom extends to most parts of the

lake, and is not restricted to the edges of the lake. However, scums may accumulate along the shoreline and are a particular risk as they may contain particularly high levels of toxins.

Cyanobacterial toxins can trigger asthma and hayfever symptoms, can cause skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

These symptoms may not appear until some time after contact with the affected water. Long-term exposure to cyanobacterial toxins may cause additional health risks.

If contact with water does occur, skin should be rinsed clean and clothing changed as soon as possible.

Dog owners should prevent their dogs from drinking or swimming in the water, as dogs are particularly sensitive to cyanobacteria.

Te Whatu Ora Public Health Unit for Waikato would like to be informed about health problems that develop after exposure to any of the Waikato lakes. Phone Waikato Public Health Service: 07 838 2569.

Lakes Hakanoa, Waikare and Kainui continue to have a cyanobacterial health warning in place.

Up-to-date information on cyanobacterial risk is available by visiting the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website at https://www.lawa.org.nz/explore-data/waikato-region/