NSW HEALTH WARNING - Georges River Macquarie Fields to Botany Bay

[mrsswordfisherman]

Release of untreated sewage into the Georges River has prompted NSW Health to advise people and their pets to avoid all contact with the river from Macquarie Fields to Botany Bay for the next 48 hours to include swimming, sailing, canoeing and fishing.

The water in the river is likely to pose a serious risk of gut and skin infections, Sydney Water said anyone who does come into contact with the water should wash themselves carefully, and seek medical advice about any open wounds that may have been exposed.

In a statement the company said that as a result of heavy rainfall and flooding in the Campbelltown area since yesterday, a flow of untreated wastewater was occurring from the Glenfield Wastewater Treatment Plant into the Georges River.

It said the intensive downpour flooded the inlet pumping station at the plant last night which resulted in the pumps being unable to operate causing release of untreated wastewater into the river.

Crews have worked throughout the night and are currently attempting to pump the wastewater into the plant for treatment using generators and portable pumps.

It added: "Sydney Water is also undertaking water quality testing, Sydney Water advised NSW Health, NSW EPA Campbelltown and Liverpool Councils of the incident last night and will continue to work with the relevant agencies to resolve the situation today."

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/environment/weather/severe-thunderstorm-warning-cancelled-20131123-2y2bu.html#ixzz2lSL4A0Ql

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