Ohio hospital links hot water system to Legionnaires' outbreak

Testing showed significant legionella bacteria in the hot water system


Mount Carmel Grove City hospital confirmed bacteria in its hot water system caused a Legionnaires' disease outbreak resulting in 16 confirmed cases and one death, according to an article on the Becker's Clinical Leadership and Infection Control website. 

Testing from May 23 through June 1 showed significant legionella bacteria in the hot water system. 

The hospital believes the bacteria is linked to inadequate disinfection before the hospital opened April 28.

The hospital implemented water restrictions May 31 and then performed a hyper-chlorination process, where high doses of chlorine are used to disinfect water systems.

Read the article.



June 25, 2019


Topic Area: Infection Control


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