May 17, 2012
Legionella bacteria are found naturally in the environment and thrive in warm water habitats. Problems can occur when building water systems are contaminated with Legionella bacteria. Exposure to legionella bacteria can cause serious, life-threatening infections.
Legionellosis
Legionellosis actually refers to two illnesses: Legionnaire’s Disease and Pontiac Fever. Both illnesses are caused by exposure to Legionella bacteria. Most commonly, people get Legionnaires’ disease or Pontiac Fever when they inhale water vapor or mist from building water systems that have been contaminated with Legionella bacteria.
Legionnaires’ Disease
In the United States, between 8,000 and 18,000 people are hospitalized for Legionnaires’ disease each year. People with Legionnaires’ disease often end up with a lung infection (pneumonia) because legionella bacteria grow so well in the lungs. In about 10 percent of cases, Legionnaires’ disease ends up being fatal.
Pontiac Fever
Pontiac Fever is the lesser of two evils. It is caused by the same legionella bacteria as Legionnaires’ disease, but results in less severe, flu-like symptoms.
History
The first known outbreak of Legionellosis, or Legionnaires’ Disease, occurred at the 1976 American Legion Convention in Philadelphia. (Yes, this is where Legionellosis got its name.) Over 200 attendees acquired the infection and between 29 and 34 died from the disease.
Resources
ASHRAE 188 Healthcare Requirements
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 188: Legionellosis Risk Management
Legionella Testing: Which Method Should Hospitals Use in Case of an Outbreak?
Where There is Scale, There Could be Legionella Bacterium
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Compliance plan discount for AMI Environmental clients
AMI has partnered with HC Info to provide customized and convenient ASHRAE 188 compliance programs. This partnership includes a special discount for our customers on LAMPS (Legionella Assessment and Management Plan Support) water management plans. To get 5% off, up to $500, go to lamps.hcinfo.com, click on Purchase, click on “Order” next to LAMPS WMP+Training, and then enter the discount code “ami5” in the check out page. If you purchase a WMP and then decide you want help in setting it up, just contact HC Info at [email protected] about a price on set-up services.