2. Legionella

Legionella is a nasty little bacteria which can cause Legionnaires’ Disease, a pneumonia-like illness which can be fatal.

It gets its name from an American Legion convention held in Philadelphia in 1976 when several of the attendees fell ill and died after contracting the illness at the gathering.

Some people are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract the disease: Those over 45 years of age Smokers and heavy drinkers Those suffering with chronic respiratory or kidney disease Those suffering from diabetes, lung and heart disease Anyone with an impaired immune system The bacteria is present in rivers and ponds but can also grow in man-made water systems where the temperature is conducive to its growth, i.e. between 20° and 45° Centigrade.

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How to manage and monitor Legionella.

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