Legionella

Legionella is a type of bacteria found in water, soil and other moist environments. It can cause a serious type of pneumonia known as Legionnaire's disease. Legionella can be found in both natural and man-made water systems, such as hot tubs, cooling towers and air conditioning units. The risk of exposure to Legionella is highest in the summer months, when water systems are more vulnerable to contamination. To reduce the risk of Legionnaire’s disease, it is important to properly maintain any system which stores and/or uses water. Regular testing should be carried out to detect any presence of Legionella and take action to destroy the bacteria and prevent further contamination.