Buildings that have been closed for extended periods of time may be at higher risk for Legionella outbreaks.
Legionella bacteria is found naturally in freshwater environments, such as lakes and streams. However, it becomes a health concern when it grows and spreads in human-made building water systems, including showerheads, sink faucets, tubs that aren't drained properly, hot water tanks and heaters, and large plumbing systems.
While Legionella is more common in large or complex water systems, such as those in hospitals, hotels, and cruise ships, it can also occur in water used for showering, cooling towers, decorative fountains, and hot tubs. Home and car air conditioning units do not use water to cool the air and therefore are not at risk.
In order to prevent the spread of Legionella, ensure a routine environmental water sampling. Additionally, regular cleaning and flushing of toilets, sinks, showers, and drains can remove any possible contamination. Maintaining a hot water temperature at the highest temperature allowed by state regulations or codes can help decrease the risk. Lastly, ensure disinfectant levels are detectable where water enters the building and at points of use. Measure the PH of the water to determine whether the disinfectant used in the building will be effective.
Legionnaires' Disease cannot be spread in the same way other illnesses are spread. Infection only occurs by breathing in small droplets of water in the air that contain the bacteria. It can also occur from aspiration of drinking water containing the bacteria.
Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease include shortness of breath, muscle aches, fever, and headaches. However, it can be treated by a doctor with antibiotics. Adults 50 and older are at a higher risk, including current or former smokers, those with chronic lung disease, weak immune systems, cancer patients, and those with underlying illnesses, such as diabetes, kidney failure, and liver