What caused the 1976 Legionnaires disease outbreak?

In January 1977, the Legionella bacterium was finally identified and isolated and was found to be breeding in the cooling tower of the hotel’s air conditioning system, which then spread it through the building. This finding prompted new regulations worldwide for climate control systems.

At what time of year is Legionella most likely?

A recent study estimated that the true number of Legionnaires’ disease cases may be 1.8–2.7 times higher than what is reported. More illness is usually found in the summer and early fall, but it can happen any time of year.

Can Legionella go away on its own?

Pontiac fever usually clears on its own, but untreated Legionnaires’ disease can be fatal. Although prompt treatment with antibiotics usually cures Legionnaires’ disease, some people continue to have problems after treatment.

Can you survive Legionella?

Legionnaires’ disease requires treatment with antibiotics and most cases of this illness can be treated successfully. Healthy people usually get better after being sick with Legionnaires’ disease, but they often need care in the hospital.

Do you have a Legionella risk assessment in place?

If you are the designated responsible person, responsible for the upkeep of a hot or cold water system, you should have a legionella risk assessment and risk management procedures in place. This report should account for all dead legs in the system.

What is Legionella bacterial contamination and how does it affect you?

This in turn leads to a greater chance for bacteria to multiply in that water, including the legionella bacterium. This can in-turn lead to Legionnaires’ disease and Pontiac fever, a less harmful yet still problematic condition stemming from legionella bacterial contamination.

What are dead legs and how do you fix them?

Dead legs tend to come about when modifications have been made to the building and old pipework is abandoned. Contractors will have removed most of the pipework, but if any remain, it is capped off – and this is a dead leg. Why Are Dead Legs A Problem?