Water test results from Lake Tūtira have confirmed a cyanobacteria bloom on the lake.
Medical Officer of Health Dr Nicholas Jones said as the bloom was visible on the lake and test results had confirmed cyanobacteria, the bloom was likely to be toxic to people and animals.
Warning signs were permanently in place but people were urged to avoid contact with the lake water and to keep animals away while the cyanobacteria were present.
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council would continue routinely testing the lake, which would provide a good picture of the health risk posed by cyanobacteria, Dr Jones said.
Eating fish from the lake should also be avoided as fish can accumulate toxins from the bloom in their gut. If people did choose to eat fish from the Lake they should make sure all the gut and liver was removed and the fish was thoroughly washed before cooking.
WHAT ARE CYANOBACTERIA?
Cyanobacteria are single celled creatures that live in water environments. Cyanobacteria have characteristics in common with both bacteria and algae. In warm nutrient rich conditions free-floating cyanobacteria cells can multiply quickly to form what are known as algal blooms.
Large numbers of Cyanobacteria can also grow as mats on river and lake beds and these mats can sometimes detach and float to the surface. Some cyanobacteria species produce toxins (cyanotoxins), which pose a risk to humans and animals when consumed in drinking water or by direct contact during recreational activities.
