Legionella bacteria are microorganisms that can cause serious infections in humans.
Legionnaires’ disease was first identified during the American Legion Congress in Philadelphia in 1976, following an outbreak of pneumonia among congress participants staying at the hotel. In this outbreak, which affected 221 people in total, 34 people died.
There are more than 40 species of this bacterium, which is widespread in nature. More than 20 species of Legionella bacteria can cause infection in humans. However, L. pneumophila is the most common species causing infection in the clinic.
L. pneumophila can be found in natural water environments around the world, and artificial water systems can provide a favorable environment for the bacteria to grow in high numbers. The optimum temperature for Legionella to multiply is between 25°C and 45°C, above 60°C they do not survive and below 20°C they are almost impossible to replicate.
Based on this, risky environments for the growth of Legionella bacteria are:
– Hot and cold water systems and tanks,
– Baths, spa pools, swimming pools and thermal spas,
– Pipes through which little or no water passes,
– Showers, shower heads and taps,
– Garden watering systems,
– Central air conditioners, fire extinguisher hoses,
– Decorative pool with fountains,
In our laboratory, ‘Legionella Risk Assessment and Analysis’ is carried out in accordance with ISO/IEC 17020 standard and ‘Legionella Detection’ is carried out with accredited methods according to ISO/IEC 17025 standard.