Transmission mechanisms and preventive measures
Factors that favor legionellosis transmission
The aerial transmission of Legionella pneumophila takes place in the following circumstances:
- The Legionella enters the facility.
This fact may be caused by:- Use of contaminated water.
- Lack of isolation from external sources of pollution.
- Legionella multiplies.
Multiplication occurs by:- Use of materials that facilitate the formation of biofilm.
- Stagnated water.
- Lack of cleaning and disinfection.
- Temperatures between 20 and 50 .C.
- The Legionella can be dispersed.
Dispersal is facilitated by:- Inefficiency of droplet separator in cooling towers.
- Use of shower shells with small orifices that encourage aerosolization in health hot water systems.
- Devices that spray or spray water.
Preventive measures
Preventive measures are covered by Article 7.2 of RD 487/2022, which establishes health criteria for the prevention and control of legionellasis.
Preventive measures to prevent legionellosis transmission consist of:
- To ensure the elimination or reduction of dirty areas, the accumulation of dirt, as well as stagnation through good design and maintenance of facilities and equipment.
- Avoid the conditions that favor the survival and multiplication of Legionella, by controlling the water temperature and disinfection of the water.
- Minimize aerosol emission.
- Apply corrective measures to mitigate risk.
Pàgina principal Mecanismes de transmissió i mesures preventives Instal·lacions Competències municipals