Researchers at the University of Torino in Italy have discovered a novel way to test for low concentrations of legionella pneumophila in water. One of the most commonly used methods of testing for legionella in water involves growing a culture from the biofilm (slime) that rests on the surfaces of water systems. Large amounts of water are also included and tested in this method. The samples are then taken into a lab where it takes anywhere from 7-14 days for any potential bacteria culture to grow. Another common testing method is what is called Quantitative Polymer Chain Reaction (qPCR). This method uses DNA testing to…
A European research consortium, comprised of university researchers, chemical analysis labs, and an Italian HVAC manufacturer. Researchers at the POSEIDON Project, which stands for Plasmonic-Based Automated Lab-on-Chip Sensor for the Rapid in-Situ Detection of Legionella, have begun the testing phase of a device that can instantly detect legionella. The device uses an optical sensor to automatically detect the presence of legionella bacteria. The current method of testing for the presence of legionella takes days, as a sample is taken and analysts wait for a culture of legionella bacteria to grow. The POSEIDON Project is only slated to be installed in HVAC and…
A publicly operated recreation center and ice rink in the Montreal suburb of Beaconsfield has shut down after routine tests of ice condensers indicated a higher-than-normal presence of legionella. There have been no reported cases of Legionnaires Disease as of now. The operators of the recreation center have announced that the arena will be closed to the public for remediation and general maintenance for 6 weeks. These findings come roughly two years after an outbreak of Legionnaires Disease at a similar public recreation center and ice rink in Quebec infected 18 people, resulting in two deaths. Click here to read more…
A fourth resident of the Illinois Veterans’ Home in Quincy, Illinois was diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. Another case of Legionnaires’ disease was also recently confirmed in the Quincy area, but this case does not appear to be associated with the Veterans’ Home in any way. A spokesman with the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, Dave MacDonna, indicated that the source of the Legionella bacteria that is responsible for this fourth case associated with the facility has not yet been determined. The gentleman’s room, where he eats, where he relaxes, and the building where he lives have all been eliminated as possible sources of exposure to the bacteria. In light of four positive…