The hospital identified the possible Legionnaires’ case the week of Sept. 24. It is unclear whether the patient contracted the illness prior to admission or at the hospital.
ECMC implemented tap water restrictions Sept. 29 “out of an abundance of caution,” Peter Cutler, the hospital’s vice president for communications and external affairs, told The Buffalo News. ECMC has also been distributing bottled water throughout the facility and installing water filters in ice machines, shower heads and faucets.
Mr. Cutler did not immediately respond to Becker’s request for comment.
Legionnaires’ disease is a virulent form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. It is not transmitted via person-to-person contact, but rather through the inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water. Most individuals with healthy immune systems do not get sick when exposed to Legionella. However, the bacteria can be particularly harmful to the elderly individuals with lung disease and those with compromised immune systems.
To learn more about Legionnaires’, click here.
More articles on infection control:
San Diego County hepatitis A outbreak tops 480 cases
Using peer tutoring to incorporate CLABSI prevention bundles lowers infection rates
Sepsis initiatives may hinder antibiotic stewardship, boost C. diff rates
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
