Legionella E-news -- 14 December 2006

www.hcinfo.com

Legionella E-news, 14 December 2006
HC Info
Matthew R. Freije, Editor

**IN THIS ISSUE**
1. Two Miners Contract LD
2. Two Cases among UK Hotel Guests
3. Outlook for LD Prevention in 2007
4. Legionella Management Plans

1. TWO MINERS CONTRACT LD
Legionnaires' disease was confirmed in two men in their 30s and 40s who work at different areas of the same mine in Australia. The mine was shut down around 10 December. Both workers were discharged from the hospital after responding to treatment. Water samples were collected from the mine by a Queensland health officer but test results are not yet available. A spokesman for the mine said it would remain closed until a risk assessment was completed and control measures were in place. Source: news media

2. TWO CASES AMONG UK HOTEL GUESTS
A hotel in North Somerset was closed on 10 November after Legionnaires' disease was diagnosed in two of its guests. Health officials sent letters to more than 500 people who stayed at the hotel in a two-week time frame. Legionella bacteria were found in water samples from the hotel. Officials said that a link between the two cases and the hotel had been established. Source: BBC News

3. OUTLOOK FOR LD PREVENTION IN 2007
Look for positive steps in Legionnaires' prevention in 2007: New or improved point-of-use filters. Accurate testing technology that is more consistent from laboratory to laboratory. State and industry guidelines (US) requiring proactive preventive measures for potable water and cooling towers. Improved flow and temperature control in potable water systems. Certification of individuals conducting Legionella assessments. And automated continuous monitoring of potable water.

4. LEGIONELLA MANAGEMENT PLANS
For hospitals: http://hcinfo.com/318info.htm

For nursing Homes and Senior Living Facilities: http://hcinfo.com/319info.htm

For hotels: http://hcinfo.com/320info.htm

The management plans read like an in-house policy manual. Each is available in print (softcover) or on a CD for US$149 plus shipping, or can be downloaded at www.hcinfo.com for $119.

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