Legionnaires' disease is an extremely serious type of pneumonia. It is a lung illness induced by breathing minute droplets of legionella bacteria-infected water.
Contrary to common perception, it cannot be passed from person to person. We look at some of the big questions surrounding legionnaires' disease so you can determine exactly what course of action you need to take.
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How Did My Business Get Contaminated?
Legionella is a bacteria that grows in freshwater habitats such as lakes and streams. When it develops and spreads in a building's water system, it might pose a health risk. Legionella enters the system via a pipeline or the water treatment process. This may happen even if the building is brand new. A few legionella bacteria are all that are required for growth in a water system.
Consider how much flowing water you have at any one moment. There is a flowing water system in every company, whether it's air conditioning, showers, or swimming pools. Legionella has the ability to proliferate, which may be fatal.
Is Legionnaires' Disease Fatal?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that during legionnaires; epidemics, deaths varied from 5 percent for healthy people to 24 percent for those who were more susceptible.
Legionnaires' disease is more lethal in the elderly, the unwell, and those with weakened immune systems. For example, while being treated for leukemia, Ready Steady Cook chef Ross Burden died as a result of legionnaires' disease.
What Are The Long-Term Ramifications of Legionnaires' Disease?
Onset symptoms include a dry cough, chest discomfort, fever, and difficulty breathing. However, if untreated, it might result in mental confusion and death. Those with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible.
What Are The Ramifications For My Company?
Legionnaire's disease is a blatant violation of the 1974 Health and Safety Act and an epidemic may arise if it is neglected. A £1 million fine was imposed on a Stoke DIY business after its hot tub display caused an epidemic that infected 21 people and killed two.
How Can I Get A Legionnaires' Disease Test?
Legionnaires' disease is entirely avoidable but the issue is that legionella may reappear after a water system has been disinfected. This is why it is critical to inspect your water systems.
Assured Water Hygiene provides a comprehensive risk assessment of your building, complete with a written report. In addition, we give a detailed action plan targeted to your company.
Don't endanger your customers or your business; speak with one of our specialists to see how you can safeguard your company with legionella testing.
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