A health warning is being issued for Sullivan Lake in Whakatane as routine water test results have found blooms of potentially toxic blue-green algae, which can be toxic.

'The health warning means that people should avoid contact with the lake water,” says Medical Officer of Health Dr Neil de Wet.

People are being advised to avoid Sullivan Lake in Whakatane.

'Care should also be taken to ensure children and pets avoid contact with any scum collections on the shores of the lake.”

Contact with algal blooms can trigger asthma and hayfever attacks in some individuals, as well as causing skin rashes, tummy upsets, and even neurological symptoms such as tingling around the mouth, headaches, breathing difficulties and visual problems.

Neil says regular sampling of the lake water 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 through these channels:

Phone: 0800 221 555, option 1

Website: www.ttophs.govt.nz/health_warnings

Twitter: www.twitter.com/ttophs