Health Warning Issued for Lake Rotokare

13 January 2010

Taranaki’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr Greg Simmons, issued a health warning for Lake Rotokare in South Taranaki today.

Routine sampling by the Taranaki Regional Council has found high levels of Cyanobacteria in the Lake water.

People should not use the Lake for any purpose, e.g. swimming, boating, water skiing, nor allow pets to enter or drink from the Lake.

South Taranaki District Council are erecting warning notices at the Lake.

Cyanobacteria is an algae capable of producing toxins, most commonly causing skin and eye irritation but, depending on the type of toxin and its concentration, may also possibly cause:
· Sore throat
· Asthma-like symptoms
· Liver damage
· Paralysis
· Irregular breathing
· Weakness, vomiting, cold extremities, and diarrhoea

Further weekly water samples will be analysed and the Lake will be reopened once Cyanobacteria levels are considered safe.

Maps outlining the health status of lakes and fresh waters can be found here.

For further information

Sue Carrington
Media Adviser
Ph 021 367 789

Last updated: Thursday, January 14, 2010