A teenage girl fell ill after paddling in a UK river, resulting in violent vomiting. Lindsey Hall revealed that her daughter, Amelia Deakin-Hall, became unwell after playing in the River Severn with a friend. The incident occurred after a walk around Trimpley Reservoir in Bewdley, Worcestershire, where the girls were paddling in the river. Despite the mums only paddling up to their knees, the teenagers were fully immersed in the water, accidentally swallowing some of it during their playful activities.
Within 36 hours, Amelia started experiencing severe stomach cramps, breathing difficulties, and projectile vomiting. Lindsey sought medical assistance, and Amelia received anti-sickness medication after being examined by a GP. Concerned about sewage possibly contaminating the river, Lindsey reported the incident to The Environment Agency. The agency informed her that since the river section is not a designated bathing spot, they are not obligated to test the water quality.
Chief medical officer Chris Whitty had previously warned about the potential risks of paddling in rivers due to bacterial contamination, even when water treatment facilities are operational. While Severn Trent Water confirmed that the issue was not linked to them, Lindsey remains cautious about swimming in undesignated areas to avoid similar health hazards.
Amelia has since recovered, but Lindsey urges people to be cautious about swimming in rivers without official bathing designations. She expressed shock at the possibility of sewage discharge into the river, affecting public health. The Environment Agency advised that rivers not designated as bathing waters may pose higher health risks due to various potential contaminant sources.
Continued vigilance and caution are encouraged when engaging in water activities in non-designated areas. Awareness of water quality and potential contamination sources is vital to ensure the safety of individuals enjoying outdoor water sports.