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South West Water fined £1.8m over Devon parasite outbreak

South West Water fined £1.8m over Devon parasite outbreak

Summary

South West Water was fined £1.853 million after water in Brixham, Devon, was contaminated by a parasite called cryptosporidium. The outbreak in May 2024 caused over 140 cases of illness, including four hospitalizations, and was described as a serious public health incident.

Key Facts

  • South West Water admitted supplying water unsafe to drink.
  • The contamination lasted 54 days in May 2024.
  • More than 140 people experienced sickness and diarrhea.
  • Four individuals were hospitalized due to the outbreak.
  • The fine imposed was £1.853 million by Exeter Magistrates' Court.
  • The court found that South West Water failed to properly monitor air valves in the water system.
  • The judge called it a "major public health incident" with serious and widespread harm.
  • The case was prosecuted by the Drinking Water Inspectorate.
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