Residents of south Devon affected by a waterborne parasite outbreak have described the impact on their lives as “terrible” and criticized the water company’s response as “poor”.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed 46 cases of cryptosporidiosis, an illness causing prolonged diarrhea, in the Brixham area, with over 100 more people reporting symptoms.
South West Water (SWW) stated they believed they had identified the source of the issue and apologized sincerely for the impact. However, residents criticized the company’s handling of the “scary” situation. Around 16,000 homes and businesses have been advised to boil water before drinking until further notice.
SWW announced they were draining the Hillhead reservoir and investigating the Alston area of Brixham as a potential cause. They have set up bottled water stations in car parks at Fresh Water Quarry and Broadsands, as well as at the Churston car boot sale field. Additionally, SWW is conducting bottled water deliveries for customers in need.