Yes, you can catch Legionnaires’ disease from a shower.
The chances of catching legionnaires disease from a shower is a lot higher in commercial buildings such as gym’s, hospitals & hotels where the water turnover may be less frequent in comparison to domestic showers, where the risk is relatively low. Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, has been a growing concern in recent years. As experts in water compliance, our mission is to provide accurate information and dispel myths surrounding the transmission of Legionnaires’ disease.
In this blog we will address a common question: Can you catch Legionnaires’ disease from showers?
Understanding Legionella Bacteria:
Before delving into the specific question, it’s essential to understand Legionella bacteria. Legionella is a waterborne pathogen that thrives in warm water environments such as hot tubs, cooling towers, and plumbing systems. The bacteria pose a risk when they become aerosolized, meaning they are dispersed into the air in tiny water droplets.
Showers and Legionnaires’ Disease:
Showers are a common source of concern when it comes to Legionnaires’ disease because they generate water droplets that can be inhaled. However, the risk of contracting Legionnaires’ disease from showers is relatively low, and several factors contribute to this.
How can Legionnaires be contracted through showers?
Temperature Matters:
Legionella bacteria thrive in water temperatures between 20°C to 45°C. Domestic hot water systems, are typically set at temperatures that discourage Legionella growth. Regular maintenance and monitoring of water heaters are crucial to ensure water temperatures remain outside the optimal range for bacterial proliferation. Nutrients including sediment, rust, and algae help bacteria thrive, and in most cases, you will find this when water has been left stagnant for a long period of time.
Distance and Exposure Time:
Legionella transmission requires exposure to contaminated aerosols. In a typical shower scenario, the distance from the point of water release to inhalation is relatively close, however, the exposure time is less than a system that operates continuously such as a cooling tower.
Chlorination and Disinfection:
Water treatment measures, such as chlorination and other disinfection methods, are commonly employed to control Legionella in municipal water supplies and building plumbing systems. These measures further reduce the risk of bacterial contamination in shower water.
What are the noticeable symptoms of Legionnaires disease?
Although not everyone exposed to the bacteria will go on to develop symptoms; those who do will start to develop symptoms within 2-10 days after infection. The most at risk are people with a weakened immune system.
Early signs of the disease are similar to flu and can include
- High temperature, feverishness, chills.
- Dry cough
- Muscles aches and pains
- Loss of strength
When developing symptoms that are present due to exposure to Legionella bacteria it is always best to seek advice from a medical professional.
Preventive Measures, to minimise the risk of Legionnaires disease in showers
It is essential to know where the main source of water for the showers within your premises is coming from. Generally, this is from a water tank, if so the responsible person needs to ensure that the water is stored at the correct temperature of 60°C and distributed at a temperature above 50°C (55°C in healthcare). To ensure bacteria cannot survive. Regular inspections of the water tank should be carried out and inspected.
To further minimize the risk of Legionnaires’ disease transmission through showers, it’s crucial to implement preventive measures:
Regular Maintenance:
Conduct routine checks and maintenance of water heating systems to ensure water temperatures are adequately controlled.
Water Testing:
Regularly test water samples for the presence of Legionella bacteria. This proactive approach helps identify potential issues before they escalate.
Education and Awareness:
Educate building occupants about Legionnaires’ disease, its symptoms, and the importance of reporting any respiratory issues promptly.
3 Failsafe ways to minimize legionella in your shower.
- Ensure the shower is in frequent use.
- Keep records and monitor frequent checks, of when the shower is flushed after a period of not being in use.
- Carry out a legionella risk assessment if you are the responsible person.
Conclusion:
While the risk of catching Legionnaires’ disease from showers exists, it is relatively low when managed accordingly and compared to other sources of transmission such as cooling towers. A comprehensive water management plan, including regular monitoring, maintenance, and education, can significantly reduce the risk and ensure the safety of building occupants. As a water compliance company, we remain committed to providing solutions that prioritize public health and safety. If you have any concerns or questions about Legionella prevention in your facility, don’t hesitate to contact Absolute water compliance for expert guidance.
