Don't swim in local waterways, warns medical officer

Advice is to avoid swimming in local waterways due to recent heavy rain. Photo/File

Locals have been warned to avoid swimming in local waterways after the recent bad weather.

Medical officer of health for Toi Te Ora Public Health Dr Neil de Wet today issued the standard public health advice to always avoid swimming in streams, rivers and beaches for 48 hours after heavy rain.

"After heavy rain there is likely to be contamination from rural and urban run-off.

"To avoid illnesses such as diarrhoea, vomiting, skin infections or ear infections, it's best to avoid swimming in rivers, streams, beaches and harbour areas for at least 48 hours after heavy rainfall events," he said.

In some areas, especially in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, there has been surface flooding.

Dr de Wet advised residents to avoid contact with surface flood water as it may be contaminated with farm run off or possibly septic tank and sewage overflows.

"It is especially important to ensure children don't play in or swim in surface flood water as it can contain hidden hazards as well as causing illnesses."

For general public health advice related to flooding visit www.toiteora.govt.nz/flooding.