Hundreds of people in UK town fall ill

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is leading an investigation into a suspected outbreak of cryptosporidium in Brixham, Devon – with hundreds of people believed to be affected.

Cryptosporidium, a parasite which can reside in the intestines and faeces of infected humans and animals, may spread through swimming in or consuming contaminated water, among other routes like tainted food.

This outbreak seems reminiscent of the 1998 Sydney Water (Australia) Cryptosporidium and Giardia contamination of treated drinking water.