Concerns Rise in Devon Over Waterborne Disease Outbreak, MP Calls for Accountability.
By Caroline Ameh
Residents in Devon express growing frustration as health officials anticipate further cases of a waterborne disease outbreak in the Brixham area, prompting calls for accountability from local authorities.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed 46 cases of cryptosporidium infection, with over 100 additional individuals reporting symptoms including diarrhea, stomach pains, and dehydration.
Approximately 16,000 households and businesses were advised by South West Water (SWW) to boil tap water before consumption, with bottled-water distribution points established to mitigate the crisis.
SWW announced that tap water in the Alston supply area is now deemed safe for consumption by approximately 14,500 households, while precautionary measures remain in place for 2,500 properties in certain areas.
Conservative MP Anthony Mangnall, representing the Totnes constituency, voiced concerns over the handling of the situation, describing it as “absolutely disastrous.” He emphasized the need for swift action to restore public confidence in the water network.
Dr. Lincoln Sargeant, Torbay’s director of public health, acknowledged that while initial contamination has been addressed, delays in symptom onset could lead to a prolonged increase in cases over the next two weeks.
Residents affected by the outbreak recount harrowing experiences, with Rita Bristow describing widespread illness in her community and expressing concerns over the severity of symptoms.
The economic impact of the outbreak is also evident, with local businesses, such as the Station Guesthouse, reporting significant losses due to cancellations. Guesthouse manager Steve Price laments the lack of direct communication from SWW, highlighting the challenges faced by commercial establishments amid the crisis.
As authorities work to contain the outbreak and support affected communities, residents and businesses alike await further updates and assistance to navigate the ongoing challenges posed by the waterborne disease outbreak in Devon.
