Legionella is a bacteria that occurs naturally in freshwater environments. Without proper care and monitoring, this bacteria may enter man-made water systems like plumbing, water towers, and hot potable water mains. After entering these systems, legionella can easily reach human consumption. Legionella can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially deadly form of pneumonia. A person can contract this disease by inhaling the small particles of the bacteria. While healthy individuals may not get sick from this bacteria, those with compromised immune systems are highly susceptible. This includes people over 50, people with weak immune systems, children, and people who are already sick. It’s extremely important to prevent legionella in water sources that serve the following places:
Hospitals.
When patients are in the hospital, it’s likely that they are highly susceptible to new viruses and bacteria. The importance of keeping hospitals sterile is never understated, but it’s important to remember that the disinfection and sterilization of the water lines entering a hospital are paramount as well.
Eldercare facilities.
Because people over 50 generally have weaker immune systems, extreme care must be taken to minimize harmful bacteria in elder care facilities. This includes regular testing of the environment, sterile bathing, and disinfection of water sources.
Hotels.
The demographics of people that stay in hotels is nowhere near consistent. Therefore, it’s incredibly important to provide sterile water to hotels and other public establishments. Those with weakened immune systems are likely to come into contact with these businesses.
At Matt Chlor, we make it our personal mission to safely and successfully disinfect water mains, water tanks, and water lines. To find out more, reach out today.
