'HUNDREDS of people' falling ill with EXTREME diarrhoea as parasite contaminates water in Devon

Summary

In Devon, residents are facing a health crisis due to a waterborne disease linked to contaminated water supplies. Over 20 confirmed cases, with estimates in the hundreds, involve severe diarrhea and stomach cramps, prompting officials to advise boiling water. The suspected cause is a damaged air valve leaking animal waste into the water system. Southwest Water initially downplayed the issue, leading to public outrage as families queue for free water. The situation has sparked significant concern and frustration among the community as they navigate this alarming health threat.

Takeaways

• 🚨 A waterborne disease outbreak in Brixton, Devon, has led residents to be advised to boil their water.
• 💧 Over 20 confirmed cases of illness, with local estimates suggesting hundreds affected by severe diarrhea and stomach cramps.
• 🔍 Investigations by Southwest Water reveal that a damaged air valve may have allowed animal feces into the water supply.
• ⚠️ Residents initially reported concerns about the water's taste and their health to the water authority, which dismissed the claims.
• 📅 The issue was first noted 10 to 12 days ago, but the water authority only acknowledged the problem recently.
• 🥤 Free bottled water is being distributed to affected residents as a temporary measure.
• 😡 Community frustration is rising over the delayed response and inadequate communication from Southwest Water.
• 👥 Local MP is involved in addressing the crisis and seeks a quick resolution for the community's health and safety.
• 🧼 Residents are advised not to use tap water even for brushing their teeth until further notice.
• ⚡ This situation highlights the critical importance of timely communication from utility providers during public health emergencies.

Q & A

What disease is affecting residents in Devon?

Residents in Devon are being warned about a waterborne disease caused by a microscopic parasite, leading to symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting.

How many cases of the disease have been confirmed?

Official figures report 22 confirmed cases, but some sources suggest the number may be in the hundreds.

What symptoms are people experiencing from this illness?

People are experiencing extreme diarrhea and stomach cramps, with some describing the pain as comparable to childbirth.

What was the initial response from Southwest Water regarding the water quality?

Initially, Southwest Water stated that there was no problem with the water and encouraged residents to continue using it normally.

When did residents first report issues with the water?

Residents began reporting issues about 10 to 12 days prior, expressing concerns about the water's taste and experiencing illness.

What ultimately caused the contamination of the water supply?

The contamination was linked to a damaged air valve that allowed animal feces and waste from groundwater to leak into the water supply.

What precautions did Southwest Water advise residents to take?

Southwest Water advised residents to boil their water before use and not to use it even for brushing teeth.

How have residents reacted to the handling of the situation by Southwest Water?

Residents expressed anger over the delayed response from Southwest Water in addressing the water quality issues.

What support is being provided to affected residents?

Free bottled water is being distributed to residents affected by the contamination.

What does the MP for the area say about the situation?

The MP claims to have identified the cause of the problem and criticized the delay in acknowledgment from Southwest Water.