Janice R. Andrews
As a result of a cryptosporidium outbreak in Devon, two people have been admitted to the hospital, Environment Secretary Steve Barclay told the Commons today. There have been 46 confirmed cases of the waterborne illness, which can have symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Steve Barclay advised MPs that as symptoms might take up to 10 days to manifest, there may be an increase in cases in the Brixham region. MP Anthony Mangnall of Totnes blasted South West Water (SWW) for the epidemic, claiming that the number of illnesses reported may be understated.
At first, it was recommended that 16,000 homes and businesses boil their tap water before using it. Eighty-five percent of the affected houses have since had this notification withdrawn. In addition to testing the water every day, SWW has cleaned and refilled the Hillhead reservoir, which is thought to be the source of the contamination.
The event, which is thought to have been caused by a ruptured air pipe in a cattle field, is being looked into by the government and the Drinking Water Inspectorate. David Harris, the incident director for SWW, said that attempts are still being made to rectify the situation and reimburse the impacted residents.
Emma Hardy, a shadow environment minister, demanded harsher laws and the prosecution of water company executives who violated them in response to criticism of the government’s approach to water safety. Barclay reaffirmed the government’s commitment to water safety and gave his word that the issue will be thoroughly probed.
Keep checking back for further developments.
