Investigations into water bug

Tests continue to try to establish the source

The Water Service in Northern Ireland is continuing its investigations after a rise in cryptosporidium related illnesses in south and west Belfast.

There have been more than 50 cases since the end of February.

The cryptosporidium parasite can cause vomiting and chronic diarrhoea, and is particularly debilitating for the elderly, very young and infirm.

On Wednesday Regional Development Minister Gregory Campbell said the Water Service was looking at its treatment processes and distribution system as a matter of urgency.

Gregory Campbell: Water remains safe to drink

However, he assured the public that water was safe to use and drink.

The Eastern Health Board is working with the Water Service and environmental health officers to establish why the number of illnesses associated with cryptosporidium has risen in the city.

About 100,000 people were affected by an outbreak of the bug last August.

Infected water supplies at Twinbrook and Poleglass, on the outskirts of Belfast, were blamed.

On Tuesday, the Eastern Health Board issued a statement stressing there was no link with last year's outbreak.

The board therefore recommends good hygiene practice - especially hand-washing before eating and avoidance of handling or preparing food for others when ill

Eastern Health Board

It said: "There is an expected seasonal increase in cases of cryptosporidium at this time of the year.

Advice

"However, in the current year the increase is greater than usual.

"The board therefore recommends good hygiene practice - especially hand-washing before eating and avoidance of handling or preparing food for others when ill," the statement said.

It warned that people with severely impaired immunity, such as Aids sufferers or people receiving chemotherapy, should reinforce existing advice.

"They should continue to boil all water, including bottled water, before consumption."

The board said people who developed severe diarrhoea should call their GP immediately.