Hunter New England Health is providing advice to people participating in recreational water and sporting activities after the Newcastle and Hunter Valley storms.

Public Health Physician Dr David Durrheim said recreational fishermen need to take special precautions to ensure they don’t become ill from contaminated seafood.

"People who catch fish during flood periods should rinse the fish in clean water prior to scaling and filleting," Dr Durrheim said.

"They should also cook the fish thoroughly and avoid cross contamination between raw and cooked fish or other foods.

"’Ready to eat’ seafood, such as oysters, must not be harvested from flood affected areas, as these products are not cooked prior to consumption."

Recreational harvesters should contact the NSW Food Authority on 1300 552 406 or www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au to determine whether an estuary is open for harvest

Dr Durrheim said all flood water should be considered contaminated and there are several issues that must be considered when swimming or participating in water sports.

"It is very dangerous to swim or participate in activities such as jet skiing or water skiing as you can fall into flood water, which often has a swift current and debris floating in it," Dr Durrheim said.

"If you come into contact with flood water and sustain an injury, ensure that all cuts and abrasions are cleaned, treated with antiseptic and covered immediately.

"It’s particularly important to seek immediate medical attention if you have deep or puncture wounds, or if any wounds develop redness or swelling.

"To prevent the spread of infection, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, or with an alcohol gel."

 Lakes, ponds, rivers and swimming pools that have been affected by flood waters, should not be used until the water has been tested and deemed safe for recreational activities.

"People who play contact sports, where minor abrasions can occur, are advised not to use sports fields that have been inundated with storm water, until the surface water is completely evaporated for a 24 hour period," Dr Durrheim said.

Members of the public are advised to contact their local council for the re-opening dates of sports fields.

Dr David Durrheim is available for interview. Please contact the Communication Unit on 4985 5522 if you would like an interview.