East Otago residents have been told that it is "unlikely" there will long-term health effects from exposure to lead in the community's drinking water supply. ''It appears long term exposure to lead from the water supply is unlikely.'' Children in the area did show slightly higher blood-lead levels than the national average, but there was not a large amount of data and it was unclear if children's blood-lead levels were higher than should be expected. Photo: Gregor RichardsonMeanwhile, no definitive answers were established as to the source of the elevated lead levels found in the area's water supply. "Until then, the DCC will continue to work with Public Health South while providing safe drinking water via water tanks in all affected communities, as the investigation continues.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 10, 2021 06:02 UTC