Health Warning Issued for Dudding Lake

29/01/2010 | Health Warning: Dudding Lake

Tests carried out by Horizons Regional Council have shown elevated concentrations of cyanobacterial toxins (caused by blue-green algae) at Dudding Lake, near Marton, and a health warning has now been issued.

Visitors to the lake are advised not to use the water for recreational purposes until health warnings are removed.

Cyanobacteria produce toxins that are harmful to humans and animals if swallowed or through contact with skin, such as may occur when swimming, water skiing or kayaking. Exposure to cyanobacteria may cause symptoms such as skin rashes, nausea, tummy upset and tingling and numbness around the mouth or finger tips.

If you experience health symptoms after contact with contaminated water, visit a doctor immediately. Boiling water does not remove toxins and drinking the water should be avoided at all times.

Fish and shellfish can concentrate toxins and their consumption should be avoided. If fish are eaten, remove the gut and liver and wash in clean water.

Cyanobacteria occur naturally but can increase rapidly during summer. If the water is cloudy, discoloured, or has small globules suspended in it, avoid all contact. Not all cyanobacterial blooms are visible and toxins can persist after the bloom has disappeared. Cyanobacterial concentrations can change quickly with changing environmental conditions (eg, wind). If a health warning is in place, avoid contact with the water.

Horizons Regional Council monitors cyanobacteria at Dudding Lake during summer and the public will be advised of any changes in water quality that are of public health significance.

CONTACT: Bruce Butters, Health Protection Officer, MidCentral Health, Wanganui Hospital on (06) 348 1234 or MidCentral Communications Unit: (06) 350-8900.