Legionella detected at Klein Center in WB

WEST BURLINGTON – The Klein Center, an independent long-term care facility, is taking mitigation measures to address a concern about Legionella bacteria in the water supply.
A Klein Center resident tested positive for Legionella, a type of bacteria, after developing pneumonia-type symptoms. Because Legionella bacteria can be found in water sources, water samples from the Klein Center and Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center - West Burlington, were sent to the Iowa State Hygienic Lab for testing.  Immediate steps were taken to engage the support of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services with input from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to remediate the situation. Water was shut off to the household where the resident resided, and residents were provided bottled water for drinking and hygiene use.
The Legionella test results for the Klein Center came back with a form of Legionella detected.  The hospital results were non-detectable. The positive results at the Klein Center prompted Great River Health, in conjunction with a third-party consulting company with expertise in Water Safety, to begin the remediation and mitigation process.
This includes practices such as Point-of-Use bacterial filters and disinfection of the domestic water system. Bottled water was supplied to all residents until protective assets were put in place.  Working closely with our Water Safety Experts, who are specialists in Legionella remediation, and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, the following steps are being taken to eliminate the exposure risk to Legionella at the Klein Center:

• Point-of-use bacterial filters have been installed on all the showers and faucets which deliver “sterilizing grade filtered water” through the assets. The filters are specifically designed to screen out the Legionella bacteria along with other bacteria. The water has been turned back on with this protective measure in place.
• A disinfection process of the water supply has begun. During this process, our Water Safety Experts will continuously monitor the system and comply with the EPA Safe Drinking Act Standards which allows for continued safe use of the water supply.
• Throughout the disinfection process, we will continue to collect data to evaluate the progress of the project and determine any future needs for the continued protection of our residents, patients, and water system. 

“The safety and comfort of our residents, families, and staff remain our top priority. Once discovered, we proactively took steps to eliminate the risk of exposure for all who live, visit, and work at the Klein Center.  The quick response, collaboration of our team members, and dedication of resources have been key to keeping everyone safe,” commented Beth Fleming, Klein Center Administrator.
Steps will continue to mitigate any future issues including implementation of treatment best practices, mechanical and operational evaluations of current procedures/assets, and a reinforcement of proper flushing protocols across Great River Health facilities; which may lead to more frequent flushing of water fixtures, and a review of equipment, fixtures, and delivery methodologies to ensure water is safe and hygienic. There will also be continued surveillance testing with an increased focus on affected areas guided by our consulted Water Safety Team.
Legionella is a type of bacteria that can cause community-acquired and healthcare-acquired pneumonia. Legionella bacteria occur naturally in freshwater environments, like lakes, ponds, streams, and soil. Generally, the low amounts of these bacteria in freshwater don't lead to disease. However, Legionella can pose a health risk when it gets into building water systems and grows (increases in numbers).
Legionnaires' disease presents with pneumonia-like symptoms. Legionnaires' disease does not spread from person to person; however, this might be possible under rare circumstances. Most healthy people exposed to Legionella do not get sick. Risk factors for developing Legionnaires’ disease include:

• Age ≥50 years.  
• Smoking (current or historical).
• Chronic lung disease, such as emphysema or COPD.
• Immune system disorders due to disease or medication.
• Systemic malignancy.
• Underlying illness, such as diabetes, renal failure, or hepatic failure.

Legionnaires’ disease symptoms are very similar to other types of pneumonia and can include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headaches. Legionnaires’ disease is treated with antibiotics. The illness can be severe and sometimes result in death.
More information on Legionnaire’s disease is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/legionella/index.html.