Health warning at Akaroa

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A health warning has been issued at Akaroa after high levels of faecal bacteria were found in water samples taken by Environment Canterbury community volunteers at the town's main beach and Glen Bay.

Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Alistair Humphrey said water quality at affected sites was not considered suitable for recreational uses including swimming because of the risk to health from the bacteria and other pathogens.

"In most cases the ill-health effects from exposure to contaminated water are minor and short-lived.

However, there is the potential for more serious diseases, such as hepatitis A, giardia, cryptosporosis, campylobacter and salmonella," Dr Humphrey said.

Eating fish or shellfish from the sites should also be avoided.

- NZPA