Boil Water Alert Hits Brixham Amid Cryptosporidium Scare
Residents across Brixham, Devon, remain under a strict boil water notice as South West Water battles a persistent cryptosporidium contamination. Areas affected include Summercombe, Chestnut Drive, Higher Brixham, Southdown, Upton Manor, and St Mary’s supply zone.
What’s Going On?
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed cryptosporidium presence, prompting the boil notice. While some zones like Kingswear, Noss Marina, Hillhead Park, and Raddicombe have had their notices lifted, large swathes of Brixham still face the water crisis.
Water Supplies and Help for Residents
- South West Water is on high alert, monitoring the threat and providing regular updates.
- Bottled water pick-up points are open daily from 7am to 9pm at Broadsands, Freshwater Quarry, and Churston.
- Water deliveries are being made directly to affected homes to ensure safety.
Important Advice: Boil Before You Drink
If you live in the affected zones, boil tap water before drinking, cooking, food prep, or even brushing your teeth. Boiled water can be stored safely in a covered container in your fridge for up to 24 hours. You can still use tap water for washing, bathing, and flushing the loo.
Official Warnings and Health Tips
Drinking Water Inspectorate: “We are investigating these illnesses and working closely with South West Water and health authorities to uncover the cause and stop the spread.”
Environment Agency: “We urge residents to follow all safety advice and remain vigilant.”
Dr Bayad Nozad, UKHSA Health Protection Consultant: “Follow boil water advice. Most symptoms can be managed at home. But if symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, seek medical help immediately.”
Know the Symptoms – Take No Chances
Cryptosporidiosis causes watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever, dehydration, and weight loss. It usually clears up in two weeks, but young children and immune-compromised people risk prolonged illness.
- Stay off nursery, school, or work for 48 hours after symptoms stop.
- Avoid swimming for 14 days after any diarrhoea episode.
- Wash hands thoroughly after the toilet and before food handling.
If you experience severe symptoms like bloody diarrhoea, call NHS 111 or see your GP straight away.
