Three important pieces of evidence have been revealed through the media so far about the outbreak at the Sands Resort. The owner did not have a permit for the spa, there was legionella bacteria in numerous places through out the hotel and not just the spa, and numerous people who have been associated with the hotel who have contracted the disease. These facts are important for the following reasons. Permits are issued to make sure the spa holder complies with all regulatory requirements, e.g. the amount of chlorine in the spa. Finding legionella in two different water systems within the…
The retirement community in downtown Orlando has once again tested positive for Legionella bacteria, despite recent remediation efforts. The water within the community tested positive for Legionella last month, and was subsequently flushed with chlorine. A spokesperson for the community stated that they did not perform a second chlorine flush of the system’s water because the bacteria levels were below the required levels to do so. Is it reported that the community is now working alongside a water consultant with expertise in Legionella bacteria. Exposure to Legionella bacteria can cause illnesses such as Legionnaires’ disease. Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease may…
CVPH in Plattsburgh, New York, has treated two patients with Legionnaires’ disease. It is not believed that the cases are related at this time, as the patients resided in different counties. Since the two diagnoses, the hospital has implemented that all patients presenting with pneumonia-like symptoms be tested for Legionnaires’ disease until August 13, 2017. The hospital has a program in place to prevent Legionella bacteria, and specifically contains a small level of chlorine in its water system as well as hyper-chlorinates its water twice a year. The water system is also tested every 90 days by a third party.…