Once the presence of legionella was detected, the hospital installed special filters on shower and faucet heads, flushed the water system and shocked it with extreme temperatures to rid it of the bacteria. “We have no knowledge of new infections contracted after our remediation efforts,” Dr. Rue said. However, until test results confirm that legionella is no longer present, the hospital asked patients to wear masks when flushing toilets.
Legionella is bacteria that thrives in warm water that can lead to a form of pneumonia, legionellosis. People with weak immune systems are more susceptible to legionellosis, which can usually be successfully treated with antibiotics.
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