Legionella

Legionella is known as a form of bacteria which can be found in water, particularly in warm water environments such as hot tubs, cooling towers, hot water tanks and large plumbing systems, known to cause legionnaires disease, a severe form of pneumonia, or a milder flu-like illness known as Pontiac fever. Legionella bacteria thrive in water temperatures between 20 and 45 degrees Celsius (68 to 113 degrees Fahrenheit) and can multiply in stagnant water or water systems with insufficient disinfection measures and when aerosolized water droplets containing the bacteria are inhaled, individuals can become infected. Various methods can be implemented to address legionella contamination in water such as, water management programs in preventing the growth and transmission, via maintenance and disinfections protocols. Temperature control measures, maintaining optimal range for legionella growth to prevent contamination e.g., Hot water systems should be maintained above 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) and cold-water systems below 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). Water disinfection measures, such as chlorine and chloramines which can aid the control of legionella in water systems, copper silver ionization, UV Light treatment or monochloramine can also be used based of the specific circumstances.

Regular cleaning and flushing of water systems, particularly in areas of stored water and low water usage or stagnation, can help prevent the buildup of biofilms and reduce the potential for legionella growth. All of which, followed by conducting risk assessments, particularly in high-risk environments like healthcare facilities or buildings with complex water systems, can help identify potential sources of legionella and guide preventive measure which is recommended.