Legionella
Legionella is a Gram negative pathogenic bacteria whose species such as L. pneumophila are the causal agents of Legionellosis. Legionellosis represents a risk factor to both healthy and "at risk" populations such as the immunocompromised and immunosuppressed. The growth and survival of Legionella in such environments is facilitated by its broad range of optimum growth temperatures and pH. Transmission of Legionella from aquatic systems to a host typically occurs via spray or aerosols transfer. Given the versatile nature of this microorganism, an informed approach must be taken to ensure complete elimination from an aquatic system. For managers of healthcare facilities, it should be noted that a new standard for the prevention of Legionellosis has been released by the American society of heating refrigerating and air-conditioning engineers (ASHRAE).
References:
ASHRAE 188 Prevention of Legionellosis Assocaited with Building Water Systems accessed 19-jul-12
