A health warning has been issued by the local Medical Officer of Health for Kennedy Bay at Lake Rotoehu due to a bloom of potentially toxic blue-green algae.
This health warning means that people should avoid any activity which results in contact with the water.
These algal blooms have the capacity to release toxins into the water which can cause significant ill-health to anyone who has contact with the water. The toxins can affect the nervous system causing numbness and difficulty with breathing and may trigger asthma attacks. Contact with the water can also cause skin rashes, stomach upsets and visual problems.
Signage advising the public about the algal bloom will be erected at the location by Rotorua Lakes Council.
Further information:
- List of up-to-date health warnings for the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts