A Hospital Outbreak of Legionellosis Despite Water Monitoring

Five definite and 17 probable cases of legionellosis developed at a Pennsylvania hospital with a functioning copper-silver ionization system.

Legionella growth is amplified in man-made water sources in the presence of warm water temperatures, low biocide levels, sediment, or biofilm. Risk assessment includes culture of biofilm or water samples. Many healthcare facilities institute eradication if Legionella is detected in ≥30% of tested sites or in concentrations ≥10 colony-forming units (CFUs)/mL. In addition, some use long-term potable-water disinfection measures such as copper-silver ionization.

In October 2012, the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System initiated an investigation after linking cases of Legionnaires' disease (LD) to Legionella isolates found in the hospital environment. In collaboration with the CDC and local health agencies, the investigators identified 5 definite and…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

A Hospital Outbreak of Legionellosis Despite Water Monitoring

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Reviewing Author