The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South West, in collaboration with Torbay Council, South West Water, NHS Devon, and the Environment Agency, is actively investigating 22 confirmed cases of cryptosporidium, a diarrhoeal illness. Additionally, instances of diarrhoea and vomiting among residents and visitors in Brixham are also being investigated, with expectations of more confirmed cases emerging.
Cryptosporidiosis primarily spreads through contaminated water sources, including drinking water or exposure to contaminated water in recreational settings like swimming pools or streams. Transmission can also occur through contact with infected animals or humans.
In response to the situation, South West Water has issued a boil water notice for residents in Brixham, with detailed information about the affected areas available on their website. https://www.southwestwater.co.uk/household/help-support/in-your-area/serviceupdates
What should I do if I am instructed to boil my tap water?
Boiling water is an effective method for killing bacteria and viruses. Many bacteria and viruses are rendered inactive at temperatures significantly below 100 degrees Celsius. To ensure safety, it is recommended to bring water to a boil, thereby effectively killing any harmful bacteria or viruses present and making the water suitable for consumption.
If you receive a boil water notice, it indicates that the tap water in your area may contain bacteria or viruses that pose health risks. It is essential to boil the water before drinking it, using it to brush your teeth, making ice cubes, preparing food, cleaning feeding equipment, or giving it to your pets.
Sarah Bird, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South West said:
“We advise people in the affected areas to follow the advice from South West Water and boil their drinking water and allow to cool before use.
“Anyone with a diarrhoeal illness should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and if they have severe symptoms like bloody diarrhoea, they should contact NHS 111 or their GP surgery.
“Symptoms include: watery diarrhoea, stomach pains, dehydration, weight loss and fever, which can last for 2-3 weeks. Anyone can get cryptosporidiosis, but it is most common in young children aged between 1 and 5 years and most healthy people will recover fully.
“For most people, cryptosporidium symptoms can be managed at home without needing medical advice.
“Those affected should stay off school and work for 48hrs since the last episode of illness and away from swimming pools for 14 days after the last episode of illness.”
- Further information about boil water notices can be found on the Drinking Water Inspectorate website – https://www.dwi.gov.uk/receiving-a-boil-water-notice/
- Advice for the public about cryptosporidium can be found at – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/cryptosporidium-public-advice
- Further information and advice on diarrhoea and vomiting can be found online – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diarrhoea-and-vomiting/
What is cryptosporidiosis?
Symptoms of cryptosporidiosis include watery diarrhoea, stomach pains, dehydration, weight loss and fever which could last for up to three weeks but people with weak immune systems can be affected for longer periods. There is no specific treatment for the illness which is usually self-limiting. It is important that anyone with the illness keeps hydrated.
How do you treat cryptosporidiosis?
There is no specific treatment for cryptosporidiosis. Most people with a healthy immune system will recover within one month.
- It is important to drink plenty of fluids as diarrhoea or vomiting can lead to dehydration and you can lose important sugars and minerals from your body. Your doctor may recommend a re-hydration solution, available from your pharmacist. If you feel sick, try taking small sips of fluid, frequently.
- Avoid alcohol
- A simple painkiller can help with abdominal cramps. Talk to your GP or pharmacist who can advise you on the most appropriate painkiller for you.
Do I need to stay off work or school?
Yes. While you are ill and have symptoms you are infectious. You should not return to work or school until you have been free from diarrhoea and/or vomiting for 48 hours.
You should tell your employer you have had cryptosporidiosis if you work with vulnerable groups such as the elderly, the young, those in poor health, or if you handle food.
If your symptoms become severe, you should contact your GP.
Cryptosporidium parasites can be found in soil, water, food or on any surface that has been contaminated with human or animal faeces.
It is spread through animal-to-human or human-to-human contact. People can also become ill by consuming contaminated water or food, or by swimming in contaminated water (for example in lakes or rivers). Infection is frequently associated with foreign travel.
Anyone suffering with a diarrhoeal illness should not swim for two weeks after their symptoms have stopped and, as always, it is important to shower immediately before entering and after leaving the swimming pool.
Page updated: 15th May 2024