Public Health England and NHS England Issue Legionnaires’ Warning
Public Health England (PHE) and NHS England have issued safety alerts to the healthcare sector following a recent case of Legionnaires’ disease identified in a baby born in a birthing pool.
Samples taken from the heated birthing pool used have confirmed the presence of Legionella bacteria, and senior Legionella risk management experts are now working closely with the healthcare sector to investigate the conditions surrounding the case to implement measures to control the risks of further contaminations. Meanwhile, the baby is currently receiving intensive care treatment in hospital.
Professor Nick Phin, PHE’s head of Legionnaires’ disease said:
“PHE and relevant local authorities are investigating the infection control measures required for this type of birthing pool and local authorities will be working with the small number of companies who supply these heated birthing pools for use at home.”
While statistics indicate that there are around 350-400 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease annually, the majority appear in older patients, with only 1 case in children aged 0 to 9 years reported in England between 1990 and 2011. This case highlights the importance of maintaining water systems with a strict water hygieneThe growth of bacteria in water systems is a common cause of potentially-fatal Legionnaires’ disease. Recent outbreaks of Legionella have highlighted the need for stringent water hygiene risk mana... More management system and carrying out regular risk assessments, maintenance and inspections.
If you have any concerns about Water Hygiene, the S2 Partnership’s specialist team of Water Hygiene Consultants are experts in the field of Legionella bacteria controls providing risk assessments, management systems, training and advice. For further information or assistance please contact us.