The National Public Health Service in Nelson-Marlborough (part of Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand) is carrying out enhanced surveillance for cases of illness that may be associated with the recent flooding events.
There has been an increase in cases notified to the Nelson-Marlborough public health service of gastrointestinal illnesses, though numbers overall are small. Case investigations show a variety of flood-associated exposures, but it cannot be confirmed if the increase is directly related to contaminated drinking water from the flood events, contact with contaminated water or land, or from other sources such as food.
The Tasman District Council’s reticulated schemes have been tested, and there are no concerns about the quality of water from those sources.
However:
- All bore water owners have been advised to boil their water as a precaution.
- If you have received a ‘boil water notice’, instructions are here.
- People on council rural water supplies should check the council website for advice.