As a precautionary measure the public are being asked not to swim or have any contact recreation activities (such as rowing) in the Karamu Stream-Clive River following a spillage of sewage into the Karitawhenua Stream (that flows into the Karamu Stream) from a blocked manhole (now fixed) in Havelock North.
Hastings District Council advised the district health board this afternoon of a blocked manhole, that could have potentially contaminated the Karamu and Clive waterways.
Medical Officer of Health Dr Nick Jones said although the council had told the district health board they believed the volume of discharge into the stream was low, a cautious approach was needed until Hawke's Bay Regional Council tests could provide more certainty to the degree of contamination.
Members of the public are advised not to gather any food from the stream or river and not to allow pets to drink from or swim in the stream. The warning status will be updated once results were back.
"Sewage in water increases the risks of infections of the stomach, skin, eyes and ears," Dr Jones said.
Anyone who has been in contact with the water and is feeling unwell, has a skin rash or any other symptom is advised to see their GP.
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Warning over Karamu Stream
People are being urged not to swim in the Karamu Stream.
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