In a recent report, it has been revealed that lampreys living in the Mataura River have been infected by certain illness. This has raised concerns for authorities that they might not be fit for consumption by humans.

It is also known as Kankana, and is commonly found in the coastal waters of Otago. It was further added by the Department of Conservation and Otago Fish and Game that no cases of health hazards have been recorded due to this sort of infection, so there is no reason to be alarmed as of now.

The infection in the fish was marked by red contusions and color in the fins as well. The same was seen for the first time by Kaumatua Rewi Anglem.

It was reported by Andy Hicks, who is an aquatic scientist that samples from these fish have been sent to the Agriculture and Forestry Ministry for the purpose of testing of pathogens and impurities so that it can be determined whether the fish are actually infected.

In the meantime, the people of the area have been advised not to eat these fish till the time the results of the tests are not revealed.