Detection of Legionella spp. and Other Pathogens in Water Systems of Nursing Homes and Spa Pools

Abstract

Legionella spp. are gram-negative and non-sporeforming bacteria. The Legionella infections are caused by the contaminated aerosols from the water distribution systems. The objectives of this study were to detect Legionella spp. and other bacterial pathogens in water systems of nursing homes and spa pools and to determine the relationship between water parameters and the prevalence of Legionella spp. The water samples were collected from nursing homes and spa pools and examined for the presence of Legionella spp. and other bacterial pathogens by culture methods. Legionella spp. was found in the water systems; 6 from 30 (20%) of nursing homes and 13 from 30 (43.33%) of spa pools. Other bacterial pathogens were Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacter spp., Acenetobacter spp. and Citrobacter spp.. There were no statistical significant correlation between water parameters (pH and temperature) and Legionella detection.