Examination of the contamination aetiological agent of legionellosis in the water supply systems of medical treatment facilities

This study considers the features of colonization of water distribution systems by Legionella in large multi-type health-care facilities in Moscow-city, Russia. The investigation of 16 pavilions in 5 multi-type health-care facilities had found the hith level of hot water systems contaminated by Legionella pneumophila (68%), including the risk units. Among the different species of Legionella pneumophila, circulating in hot water systems of health-care facilities, the following strains had prevailed: the serogroup 6 (44%), 5 (26%) and 1 (13%). The findings conclude that certain prevention measures should be taken for microbial control and ensuring water safety in water systems of health-care facilities to prevent the nosocomial cases of legionellosis.