Focus: Plumbing

Best conditions for Legionella bacteria growth

Warm tap water with dissolved organic matter supports the growth of biofilms


The bacteria that cause Legionnaire's disease grow well in warm tap water installations with ample dissolved organic matter —conditions that support the growth of biofilms, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.

According to a study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology, the investigators developed a model system that enabled measurement of biofilm formation and growth of legionella. 

They compared a water supply system with a very low concentration of dissolved organic matter with one with a high concentration.

Drinking water from sources with higher concentrations of organic matter induced higher biofilm concentrations that supported legionella growth, according to the study.

Read the article.

 

 



February 13, 2018


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Energy Security: Benefits of Hospital Microgrids

Healthcare facility managers need to keep medicine, machines, information and life-support systems operating when the surrounding infrastructure is not.


UT MD Anderson to Expand Texas Medical Center Via Two New Facilities

Inspiration Tower and Prism will serve as the new front door to UT MD Anderson.


Hoag Hospital Reports Data Security Incident 

The hospital discovered suspicious activity within its network on Oct. 8, 2026.


What To Know Now About OSHA's Updated Hazcom Rule

The update requires careful attention because compliance is not optional, and OSHA has set firm deadlines extending through 2028.


HealthSource of Ohio and UC Health Partner for New Medical Office Building

Construction is anticipated to be completed in 2028.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.