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Legionella in water distribution systems
Author(s) -
Lin Yusen E.,
Vidic Radisav D.,
Stout Janet E.,
Yu Victor L.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
journal ‐ american water works association
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.466
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1551-8833
pISSN - 0003-150X
DOI - 10.1002/j.1551-8833.1998.tb08503.x
Subject(s) - legionella , legionnaires' disease , environmental science , component (thermodynamics) , legionella pneumophila , environmental engineering , biology , bacteria , physics , genetics , thermodynamics
Regular culturing of distribution system samples is the key to successful disinfection. Legionnaires' disease arises from the presence of Legionella in water systems. Legionella can be found within biofilms throughout the entire water distribution system. Control measures such as copper‐silver ionization, superheat‐and‐flush procedures, ultraviolet light, instantaneous heating systems, and hyperchlorination have been applied with variable success. Specific approaches, advantages, disadvantages, and costs of each method are reviewed. Many approaches commonly recommended by public health authorities have not been scientifically validated. Results from routine environmental surveillance cultures for Legionella are the critical component for rational decision‐making.