A woman fell seriously ill with a parasite after swimming during a period of high temperatures, attributing her sickness to consuming polluted seawater. Katherine Hopkins, a former tattoo artist, spent time swimming at Hove Lawns in Brighton and Lancing Beach in West Sussex. Despite not submerging her head underwater, she experienced severe stomach cramps and excessive toilet use shortly after her beach outings. Hospital tests later confirmed she had contracted cryptosporidium, a microscopic parasite causing intestinal illness. Katherine, who had a kidney transplant in the past, believes she ingested the parasite from contaminated seawater.
Following a month-long hospitalization and a significant weight loss, Katherine remains symptomatic and urges caution for others swimming in the area. The incident coincided with Southern Water being fined for sewage pollution, highlighting concerns over water quality and public safety. Despite the reassurance that the bathing water quality is now rated ‘Excellent,’ Katherine’s ordeal serves as a warning about potential risks associated with swimming in the sea.