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Legionella pp 87–118Cite as

Outbreak Investigations and Identification of Legionella in Contaminated Water

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Part of the book series: Methods in Molecular Biology ((MIMB,volume 954))

Abstract

To avoid further cases arising from an infectious source it is essential to ensure the early identification of all potential source(s) within an identified area, or buildings, to determine if they are being managed safely; to take appropriate samples and ensure appropriate remedial actions are taken to remove the risk of further cases. If samples are to give representative results of the system at the time of sampling it is essential to ensure that they are processed appropriately using methods which are both sensitive and specific. It is also imperative that results are interpreted in context and transmitted as soon as possible to the outbreak control team to ensure appropriate and timely action is taken on sites which still pose a risk of infection. A multidisciplinary team approach and forward planning are essential to ensure that there are sufficiently trained and competent personnel and resources. Recognition of sources is dependent on many factors including thorough epidemiological investigations to narrow down the potential geographical area or water system that maybe common to the patients as agreed within the outbreak case definition. qPCR can be useful in both the elimination and identification of suspect systems/sites. However, it requires expert interpretation of results in the context of the sample site and factors which may affect the results such as the use of biocides together with the use of an algorithm for interpretation and actions to be taken to put the results in context.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    1  On some sites the use of certain disinfectant processes might be prohibited, for example use of ethanol on sites where there are fire or explosion risks, or hot work/blowtorches. It is essential that the specific site health and safety rules are followed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Leegionella Ltd, Ruislip, UK

    Susanne Lee & John Lee

Authors
  1. Susanne Lee
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  2. John Lee
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Correspondence to Susanne Lee .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. , Biology of Intracellular Bacteria, Institut Pasteur, Rue du Dr. Roux 28, Paris, 75724, France

    Carmen Buchrieser

  2. Max von Pettenkofer Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Pettenkoferstrasse 9a, Munich, 80336, Germany

    Hubert Hilbi

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Lee, S., Lee, J. (2013). Outbreak Investigations and Identification of Legionella in Contaminated Water. In: Buchrieser, C., Hilbi, H. (eds) Legionella. Methods in Molecular Biology, vol 954. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-62703-161-5_5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-62703-161-5_5

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  • Publisher Name: Humana Press, Totowa, NJ

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-62703-160-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-62703-161-5

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