46 cases confirmed in water parasite outbreak in South Devon
The UK Health Security Agency expect cases in Brixham to rise further
Last updated 18th May 2024
46 cases of a waterborne disease caused by a microscopic parasite have now been confirmed in South Devon.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed the number of cases of cryptosporidium in Brixham had more than doubled since Thursday.
Over 100 people in the area have also reported having similar symptoms, with the UKHSA expecting more cases to be confirmed.
Around 16,000 households and businesses in Brixham are still being told to boil water before drinking.
Lincoln Sargeant, Torbay’s Director of Public Health, said:
"While we have increasing confidence we have identified the source of the initial contamination of the water supply and put in place public health measures to stop exposure to cryptosporidium, we know that there can be a delay of up to two weeks for some people to develop symptoms after their first exposure to the parasite.
"As a result there may continue to be people who experience watery diarrhoea in the coming days that are related to the initial problem.
"It is important that those in the areas where the Boil Water notice is in place continue to avoid ingesting tap water until advised otherwise. All residents need to maintain good hygiene measures and remain away from school and work for up to 48 after last episode of diarrhoea. This will help us to reduce any onward person to person spread of the infection.
"The outbreak is confined to Brixham and surrounding areas. We have effective public health measures in place to protect our residents and visitors and the Bay remains open for business."
The UKHSA are asking people to only visit their GP if they require urgent clinical care, such as if symptoms last longer than seven days.
People are being asked not to attend A&E with any symptoms to avoid the NHS being overwhelmed.
Bottled water sites and more compensation offered
South West Water are running three bottled water sites in Brixham over the weekend.
They're taking place at the Broadsands Car Park, Freshwater Quarry Car Park and Churston Car Boot Field.
The sites will be open from 7am to 9pm on Saturday and Sunday.
More vulnerable customers will receive deliveries, with people asked to call 0344 346 1010 if they are not on the Priority Services register.
The water company apologised again for the disruption caused, and confirmed that customers affected by the boil water notice will be given £115 in compensation.
Speaking to Greatest Hits Radio, Farming Minister Mark Spencer said the farming industry "are part of the solution" to restore drinking water.
"The way in which they manage their fields and their crops can actually improve water quality and take nutrients out of the environment."