Residents in Brixham, Devon, have been advised by South West Water to boil their tap water before consumption following the detection of microscopic parasite Cryptosporidium in the local water supply. This parasite, resistant to chlorine and capable of causing symptoms like diarrhoea, stomach pains, vomit, and fever, has led to 22 confirmed cases of cryptosporidiosis in the area, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
South West Water identified "small traces" of Cryptosporidium during routine tests, prompting immediate action. The affected areas include Brixham, Churston, Galmpton, Broadsands, Hookhills, and White Rock. Emergency bottled water stations have been set up in response, and deliveries are being prioritized for vulnerable residents.
Eden Park Primary School in Brixham has closed temporarily due to the lack of safe drinking water, while officials investigate further. South West Water, working alongside UKHSA and other public health bodies, has issued a precautionary "boil water notice" and continues to test and monitor water quality.
Residents are advised to boil water before drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth until the issue is resolved. Despite the contamination, South West Water clarified that the risk to public health remains low and that British drinking water, overall, remains safe.