A health warning has been issued for Lake Okaro as routine monitoring results provided by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council have confirmed a bloom of potentially toxic blue-green algae which is also known as cyanobacteria. 



'The health warning means that people should avoid any activity which results in significant contact with the lake water,” says Dr Phil Shoemack, Medical Officer of Health.

People are being advised to avoid activity in Lake Okaro.

'The timing of this bloom is obviously unfortunate as significant health problems can result from exposure to the blooms and the toxins they can produce.”

Contact with algal blooms can cause asthma and hayfever attacks in susceptible individuals, as well as skin rashes, stomach upsets, and in some cases neurological effects such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.



Signage will be erected at Lake Okaro advising potential lake users about the algal bloom.

Phil says monitoring will continue and any changes in advice will be communicated accordingly.

The public can obtain up-to-date information on this health warning and others for the Bay of Plenty and Lakes districts by calling: 0800 221 555 or visiting: www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings