An outbreak of a highly infectious diarrhoea bug in Devon has prompted a school closure, with residents in several towns told not to drink tap water.

The cryptosporidium bug has struck down hundreds of people across the region. At least 22 cases of the illness caused by the parasite have been confirmed in two areas of Brixham, with residents suffering from diarrhoea and sickness. And a further 100 people have reported symptoms to their GP in the last week.

People in Brixham, Boohay, Kingswear, Roseland and North East Paignton have been ordered to boil water before drinking it. Cryptosporidium is a parasite (a tiny organism) that causes an illness or disease called cryptosporidiosis, which affects people and animals.

It's typically found in the intestines and faeces of infected humans and animals and may contaminate lakes, streams and rivers, swimming pools, untreated or poorly treated water, food and objects.

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The grim bug results in water diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea and, in some cases, fever and loss of appetite. A primary school in one of the villages has now been forced to shut down until the problem is sorted.

Symptoms usually last for about 2 weeks but can be longer, especially in people with weak immune systems. During the illness, you might think that you are getting better and have shaken off the infection but then it returns a couple of days later before you fully recover.

One woman described the bug's symptoms. Tanya Matthews told DevonLive: "I started having stomach cramps and explosive diarrhoea nine days ago and it has been the same every day since. I started to feel a little bit better yesterday then today [May 14] it hit me again."

Eden Park Primary and Nursery said it cannot open to children while drinking water is not possible. In a letter to parents, the school said it hoped to re-open its doors on Friday "pending deliveries and the situation".

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said it was working with local authorities to investigate the outbreak. South West Water (SWW) has confirmed the tests it has carried out on the quality of drinking water in Brixham have currently all come back clear.

South West Water said: "We are working with public health partners to urgently investigate the source. We apologise for the inconvenience caused and will continue to keep customers and businesses updated." Bottled water stations handing out emergency supplies have meanwhile been set up for local residents.

The water company added: "Customers in Alston and the Hillhead area of Brixham are advised to boil their drinking water before consuming following new test results for cryptosporidium. We are issuing this as a precaution following small traces of the organism identified overnight and this morning. We are working with public health partners to urgently investigate the source.

"For those customers registered for Priority Services we will be delivering bottled water to your address. For all customers who have been issued with the Boil Water Notice you will receive an automatic payment of £15, as part of our Customer Promise when services are interrupted."

List of symptoms

  • profuse watery diarrhoea
  • stomach pains
  • nausea or vomiting
  • low-grade fever
  • loss of appetite which can lead to dehydration and weight loss

Symptoms usually last for about 2 weeks but can be longer, especially in people with weak immune systems. During the illness, you might think that you are getting better and have shaken off the infection but then it returns a couple of days later before you fully recover.

How to avoid the bug and stop the spread

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water:

  • before preparing and eating food
  • after handling raw food
  • after going to the toilet or changing a baby’s nappy
  • after working with, feeding, grooming or playing with pets and other animals

Help young children to wash their hands properly

Always wash and/or peel fruits and vegetables before eating them

Do not drink untreated water

Do not consume ice or tap water in countries where the water supply might be unsafe

Avoid swallowing water in lakes and swimming pools