Legionella

Legionella pneumophila - bacterium that thrives in water supply and air conditioning systems - causing Legionnairs disease

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Legionnaires' disease is an acute respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila bacteria. The bacteria can cause a broad spectrum of disease from mild cough and fever to serious pneumonia.

The bacteria thrives at temperatures between 69oF (20.5oC) and 122oF (50oC) and may be traced in water supply, central heating and air conditioning systems.

Note! Any water system with operating temperatures between 69oF (20.5oC) and 122oF (50oC) is a potential legionella source. Special attention should be taken for

Regularly cleaning, heat and chemical treatment are often necessary to avoid potential development of the bacteria.

The Legionella bacteria cannot survive water temperatures above 131oF (55oC) for more than five or six hours. Instantaneous destruction of the bacteria occurs at temperatures above 158oF (70oC). General protection against the bacteria can be achieved by designing an operating water temperature of at least 140oF (60oC).

For water temperatures below 140oF (60oC) special initiatives are necessary regarding cleaning and chemical treatment procedures.

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Related Topics

  • Water Systems Hot and cold water systems - design properties, capacities, sizing and more
  • Physiology Human physiology, air quality and comfort temperatures, activity and metabolic rates, health effects of carbon monoxide and more

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