Hospital acts to prevent water-borne diseases

Precautions have been taken to ensure that there is no further spread of a life threatening bacteria found in the water supply at Lourdes Hospital, in Drogheda.


Hyper-chlorination of the water system is to begin in the coming days, while regular chlorine dioxide dosing of the system will follow, according to a statement from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

These developments should prevent Legionnaires Disease from growing in either the water pipes or tanks.

The HSE statement added: “Extensive consultation has taken place with the consultant microbiologist at the hospital, Infection Protection and Control Department, hospital management and maintenance services as well as public health.”

“All are satisfied that the most appropriate precautions for the health and protection of our patients and staff are being taken.”

It has been stated that no staff or patients are known to have acquired the disease from the water supply.

Legionnaires Disease produces pneumonia and gained its name after an outbreak of the disease occurred among people attending an American Legion convention in the US in the 1970s.

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