Jeollanam-do Institute of Health and Environment to Intensify Legionella Inspections in Multi-Use Facilities

Targeting Vulnerable Facilities Such as Large Buildings and Public Baths
Sterilization, Disinfection, and Retesting Measures to Be Implemented

A staff member from the Jeollanam-do Institute of Health and Environment conducting a Legionella bacteria test. Provided by Jeonnam Province

The Jeollanam-do Institute of Health and Environment announced on the 23rd that it plans to strengthen public health safety for residents by conducting Legionella bacteria tests, focusing on water systems in multi-use facilities.

Legionellosis is an acute respiratory infection caused by Legionella bacteria. Infection occurs when water particles smaller than 5 micrometers in diameter are dispersed into the air in aerosol form and then inhaled.

There is no human-to-human transmission; infection mainly occurs in environments where water is used. Cooling tower reservoirs filled with warm recirculating water provide an environment where Legionella bacteria can easily proliferate.

The Jeollanam-do Institute of Health and Environment plans to conduct tests focusing on major water systems where Legionella bacteria can be generated in aerosol form, targeting high-usage facilities such as large buildings and large public baths, as well as vulnerable facilities sensitive to infection, such as senior welfare centers.

The tests will be conducted in cooperation with public health centers in 22 cities and counties.

If the test results detect Legionella bacteria exceeding the standard threshold, the facility must immediately carry out sterilization and disinfection measures. Disinfection and retesting must be repeated until no further bacteria are detected.

A representative from the Jeollanam-do Institute of Health and Environment emphasized, "To prevent Legionellosis, it is necessary for facility managers to ensure thorough preventive management, such as regularly disinfecting cooling towers and maintaining an appropriate residual concentration of disinfectant in hot and cold water systems of water facilities like public baths."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.