Elevated lead levels in the blood of children is concerning, but more work needs to be done to understand the cause or any potential effects, a professor of toxicology says.
The presence of elevated levels of lead in children is worrying but people should not panic, an expert says (File image).
Photo: 123RF
Blood tests have found unsafe levels of lead in some east Otago residents - including a number of children.
Last night, Southern District Health Board Medical Officer of Health Susan Jack confirmed to RNZ some results have come back above internationally recognised safe levels.
Canterbury University toxicology professor Ian Shaw said any level of lead in the blood was concerning, but it did not immediately translate into serious health effects.
A warning sign outside Karitane.
Photo: RNZ / Tess Brunton
Previously, the council incorrectly stated the test sample taken on 8 December last year was four times the allowable level.
The Ministry of Health has announced that blood tests for lead levels will be offered to locals from next Tuesday.
Karitane mother of three Jazhr Hansen said her children and her mother had been having really bad stomach pains .
She said the ordeal was terrifying and that it was all linking together . I m genuinely scared for my family and their health . it feels like an absolute nightmare I can t wake up from.
Lead in Otago water found at 40 times acceptable levels
4 Feb, 2021 05:16 AM
6 minutes to read
• Six tests show elevated lead levels.
• First test results showing elevated lead levels in August.
• Elevated lead levels at Waikouaiti Golf Club (4 times), Karitane Bowls Club (1), Waikouaiti raw water reservoir (1).
• No-drink notice issued Feb 2 (after reservoir test result received Jan 29).
• Two test results emailed to DCC on Dec 18 not opened until Jan 7.
• DCC changes email procedures.
The highest level of lead in the water in Waikouaiti was almost 40 times acceptable levels - not four times as previously reported by the Dunedin City Council.
Meanwhile, Mayor Aaron Hawkins has welcomed the Ministry of Health s announcement that blood tests would be made available to 1500 residents in Waikouaiti and nearby Karitane.