Detection ofLegionellaspp. from Domestic Water in the Prefecture of Arta, Greece

[摘要] The aim of this research was the isolation ofLegionellaspp. from domestic water supply networks in the Prefecture of Arta. A total of 100 water samples, from 25 houses, were collected. Half of the samples concerned the cold water and half the hot water supply. Purpose was to detect colonization of the water networks withLegionellaspp. >500 cfu/L by using the method of filtration (ISO 11731). Out of 100 samples, 6 samples from 3 houses were positive forLegionellaspp.Legionella pneumophilaserogroup 2–14 was isolated in 5 of6 samples, whereas in the sixth sampleLegionella anisawas identified. Only three of the samples had residual chloride over 0.2 mg/L, rate which is necessary for potable water, according to the Greek hygienic practice. Concerning the temperature of hot water, the mean temperature of the negative forLegionellasamples was higher compared to the mean temperature of the positive forLegionellasamples (49.9°C versus 45.5°C). It is estimated that there is risk of infection through the use of showers. The low concentration of chloride and the temperature, which was found within the limits favorable to developingLegionellaspp. (20–45°C), provide fertile ground for proliferation of the bacteria.

[学科分类] 医学微生物学