After months of lockdown, some Californians are returning to their offices, restaurants, and gyms. But as we reach to turn on the tap or the shower, a new hazard may be lurking in the stagnant water of our abandoned plumbing—Legionella. 

First discovered in 1976, Legionella flourishes in man-made water systems like hot water tanks and heaters, showers, sinks, cooling towers, hot tubs, and decorative water features. When aerosolized droplets of contaminated water are inhaled, the bacteria can cause a type of deadly pneumonia called Legionnaires Disease. According to the CDC toolkit for managing Legionella, proper prevention and maintenance are vital to control outbreaks, but the long shutdown compromised many water systems in commercial buildings. 

Before Covid-19 hit, buildings kept chlorinated water flowing through their plumbing and maintained water temperatures too hot or cold for bacteria to grow. But after months of lockdown, unused water systems now provide Legionella with the perfect conditions to flourish. Hot water, when left stagnant, cools from the CDC recommended 120 degrees Fahrenheit to the bacteria’s optimal growing range of 77 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit. Moreover, without continuous reapplication, the disinfectants used to control bacterial populations disappear quickly, sometimes within days. All told, water and sanitation organizations fear the shutdown created the perfect breeding ground for Legionella and a possible outbreak of Legionnaires Disease. 

In a nation already reeling from Covid-19, an outbreak of Legionnaires Disease would further devastate an already vulnerable population. Smokers, the elderly, and people with chronic underlying illnesses are more likely to contract Legionnaires after exposure to Legionella. Some experts worry that Covid-19 patients and survivors are especially vulnerable to Legionnaires and may be re-infected after returning to work. Experts are further concerned that symptoms of Legionnaires, such as coughing, chills, fever, and difficulty breathing, could be misdiagnosed as Covid-19, thereby delaying antibiotic treatment.

As Californians return to offices, gyms, and restaurants, it is vital that water systems are properly tested, flushed, and disinfected. Both the CDC and DOA have released guidelines for reopening after lockdown. Experts caution that anything left unused during the shutdown and connected to a water system should be thoroughly sanitized. Although we are all eager to see businesses and public places reopen, we must remember to prioritize our health first.

Babcock Labs is working hard to support our clients and the public health. We are now offering sampling and analysis of Legionella in drinking fountains and water systems. Call today to arrange testing for your facility