Weil’s disease (Leptospirosis):  is an infection caught through contact with infected animal urine, mainly from rodents. The incidence may be higher after high rainfall and runoff. The symptoms are very similar to flu, and can occur anytime up to 3 weeks after paddling.
If you develop symptoms, make sure your doctor is aware of your symptoms and that you have been paddling recently.

Blue green algae (CYANOBACTERIA): Most likely in canals and lakes. Usually a problem in summer. The water will be a blue-green colour. With contact it can cause a variety of symptoms including gastro-entertis, dermatitis etc. Avoid paddling if the water looks like this!

Gastro-Intestinal Illness: This can occur anytime but again, is usually a problem after heavy rain as it is usually caused by raw sewage in the river entering via storm overflows. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps etc. Avoid contact with water after heavy rain if possible

Hepatitis A: Lovely. Again you’re mostly likely to succumb after a sewage discharge. Symptoms include fever, abdominal discomfort etc

Some precautions to minimise contracting these nasties:

• If you fall in or are practicing rescues, try not to swallow river water!
• Wash hands thoroughly after paddling
• Shower after contact with water
• Cover any cuts with dressings before paddling
• Avoid deliberately getting into the water after heavy rainfall
• Don’t paddle if there is an algal bloom.