Legionella Testing | CDC ELITE Certified Legionella Bacteria Tests
Legionella is a gram-negative bacterium naturally occurring in moist environments such as water (streams, rivers, and lakes).
There are over 40 individual known species, the most known strain is Legionella pneumophila, the species Legionella pneumophila is divided into sixteen subgroups (called serogroups).
Legionella pneumophila which is known for causing legionellosis, a pneumonia-type illness called Legionnaires’ disease and a mild flu-like illness called Pontiac fever. Legionella pneumophila was first discovered following a pneumonia outbreak at the
Legionella Test Results are immediately available on secure client specific portal
Transmission To Humans
Legionella are transmitted directly from the environment to humans by inhalation. Potable water is the source of Legionella. Humans may inhale aerosols containing small amounts of Legionella water, primarily while bathing due to aerosolization through the shower head or sink faucets.
Potential Sources
- Shower Heads and Faucets
- Mist Machines
- Humidifiers
- Hot Tubs
- Decorative Fountains and water features
- Building Cooling Towers
Control & Monitoring Measures
- Evaluate hazardous conditions in systems that are commonly associated with Legionella; stagnate water below 124°F.
- Implement Legionella control measures per ASHRAE Guideline 12-2020 and or current CDC Guidelines including maintaining water temperatures >124°F.
- Develop and implement a routine monitoring program.
How Alliance Analytical Laboratories Can Assist
Alliance Analytical can assist with the development of a routine monitoring plan, evaluate and discuss potential mitigation treatments, and maintenance plans. Alliance is certified through the CDC ELITE program for Legionella testing.
Contact our legionella testing laboratory in Grand Rapids. If there are any questions or you would like to speak directly with our team, please contact us at (616) 837-7670 or email Jeremy at jeremy@aatestlabs.com.
Microbiology