Legionella bacteria found at Cradley Heath leisure centre (From Halesowen News)

Legionella bacteria found at Cradley Heath leisure centre

2:47pm Thursday 28th January 2010 in News

BACTERIA which causes Legionnaires Disease has been found in the water system at a Cradley Heath lesiure centre.

Several showers have been closed at Haden Hill Leisure Centre in Barrs Road after Legionella bacteria was discovered.

Sandwell Council's cabinet member for transport and regeneration Cllr Bob Badham said today (Thursday): "Routine inspections of the water system at Haden Hill Leisure Centre showed the presence of legionella bacteria.

"As a precaution several showers have been closed in the changing area and we have cleansed and disinfected the water system.

"Water samples have been sent to a water hygiene company for analysis and we are awaiting the results before making a decision on whether to reopen the showers.

"Legionella is a naturally occuring bacteria which is common in many environments.

"We have a rigorous testing regime which picked up its presence and allowed us to clean and disinfect the system at the earliest opportunity."

Legionnaires’ Disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia which principally affects those who are susceptible due to reasons such as age, illness and smoking.

It is caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila and related bacteria that can be found naturally in environmental water sources such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs, usually in low numbers.

As they are commonly found in environmental sources they may also be found in purpose built water systems such as cooling towers, evaporative condensers and whirlpool spas.