Legionella bacteria found in Hinchingbrooke Hospital water system

As buildings begin to reopen following the lockdown measures across the UK it is likely that we might see a spike in Legionella outbreaks if the correct measures are not taken to protect public health.

BBC News has reported that “a bacteria with the potential to cause the life-threatening Legionaires’ disease has been found in the water supply at an NHS hospital”.

“The Legionella bacteria was discovered during routine testing at Hinchingbrooke Hospital, in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire.

Chief operating officer Graham Wilde added: “We would like to assure patients and staff that we are taking all actions necessary to return our site to usual operation as soon as possible and apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused.”

As we know, Legionella bacteria is commonly found in water. Mains water supply is at risk of Legionella bacteria build up if adequate measures are not adopted to maintain a healthy mains water system. Regular Legionella Risk Assessment are highly recommended. This is a preventative measure to ensure the system is safe and it detects any necessary work required to protect the system.

Legionnaires’ disease is a dangerous type of pneumonia, which is contracted by inhaling airborne water droplets containing Legionella bacteria.

“During the COVID-19 period there may have been a number of factors that will increase both legionella risk in water systems and the risk of legionellosis”.

If you would like to discuss a Legionella Risk Assessment or Monitoring / PPM works please contact a member of the team by completing the form below. or you would like advice on a building which has been unused during lockdown please contact a member of the team today.

GET A QUOTE



    VIEW OUR SERVICES

    Services