Legionella Implicated in the Death of a Health Center Employee

EMSL Analytical provides environmental and indoor air quality (IAQ) testing solutions to identify the bacteria that cause the deadly outbreaks.

Cinnaminson, NJ

According to a recent report in The Bellingham Herald, an employee of California’s Richmond Health Center has died of Legionnaires’ Disease. Testing is currently underway to try to identify the source of the bacteria that causes the disease.

This is not the first time an employee of the center has come down with Legionnaires’ Disease. Back in 2008, another employee also developed the illness, but fortunately recovered. The center remains open as the Contra Costa Health Services investigate. According to the article, Contra Costa County typically has 3 to 10 cases of Legionnaires’ Disease each year, but this is the first case in the county for 2011.

The CDC states, “Each year, between 8,000 and 18,000 people are hospitalized with Legionnaires’ disease in the U.S. However, many infections are not diagnosed or reported, so this number may be higher.”

One of the largest environmental laboratories in the country, EMSL Analytical, has developed a number of ongoing initiatives to educate environmental professionals and the general public about the organism that causes the disease. A dedicated website with more information can be found at www.LegionellaTesting.com. EMSL has also recently cosponsored a public outreach video about Legionella that can be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HB7g81JxCq0

“The transmission of Legionella occurs via aerosols, when mist containing the bacteria is inhaled,” reported Diane Miskowski, Business Development Manager at EMSL Analytical. “Legionella can be found in lakes and streams, but most human infections occur from contaminated manmade sources such as hot tubs, cooling towers and potable water systems. The CDC reports that 5% to 30% of cases can result in death.”

To learn more about Legionella or other IAQ testing services please visit www.LegionellaTesting.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675 x 2528.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of quality environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal agencies.

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Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

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