New Mexico hospital finds Legionella in 2 rooms

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Albuquerque, N.M.-based Presbyterian Hospital said it found Legionella pneumophila in limited areas of the water system, including two rooms, Fox affiliate KRQE reported Sept. 7.

The hospital implemented testing for the bacteria after a patient who recently received care at the hospital tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease. However, officials with the New Mexico Department of Health told CBS affiliate KOAT there is no definitive evidence showing the patient contracted the bacteria from Presbyterian. No additional cases have been identified and there is no known exposure to other patients or staff.

The hospital received the environmental testing results Sept. 3 and immediately implemented safety precautions in affected areas. 

All hospital services and operations are continuing as normal, and water use is impacted only in the affected areas while remediation is underway, hospital officials told KRQE.

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