Cryptosporidiosis in North Wales

In my statement on 29th November concerning Cryptosporidiosis in North Wales, I said that I would bring to Members’ attention any significant new developments with regard to public health.  The current situation is as follows:  

• At 12 noon yesterday there were 123 laboratory confirmed cases of Cryptosporidium in the Gwynedd and Anglesey area. This is an increase of 36 over the number given in my earlier statement. A further increase in the number of cases is expected.

• Investigations remain centred on the Llwyn Cwellyn reservoir.

• Advice to boil water was issued on the 29th November and remains current.  People are being advised to bring to the boil, then cool, all water used for drinking, food preparation, tooth brushing, ice making and baby feed preparation, or use bottled water. Those with impaired immune systems who are at increased risk of more serious illness, should only use boiled water.  Questions and answers in relation to individual concerns about the boiled water advice can be accessed via the NHS Direct Wales website or via the Helpline, also provided by NHS Direct Wales.
 
• People who have suffered from persistent diarrhoeal illness are being advised not normally to attend schools, work places or other institutional settings until 48 hours after they have fully recovered from their symptoms. This is particularly important for food handlers and those working in healthcare facilities. They should also refrain from using swimming pools until two weeks after full recovery.

• Households in the Llwyn Cwellyn catchment area are receiving letters from Welsh Water, advising them of the need to boil water before consumption.
 
• The Outbreak Control Team has sent repeat advice to all General Practitioners in the affected area, following the advice originally cascaded on 23rd November.

• Gwynedd and Anglesey Environmental Health Departments have also issued guidance letters to all managers of local swimming pools.
 
• The issuing of a boil water notice has caused a predictable increase in demand for assistance from the Helpline, which has added a second number.
 
• The Outbreak Control Team have arranged for the Helpline to remain open longer and employ more staff to ensure all public enquiries can be handled efficiently. The Helpline numbers are 0845 850 9850 and 0845 600 6086. Current extended hours are between 9am and 6pm on weekdays, and 9am and 5pm at weekends.