Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Legionella?
Legionella is a naturally occurring bacterium commonly found in water systems, which can multiply where there is water stagnation or plumbing ends.
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia caused by infection with Legionella bacteria. Environmental detection of legionella does not mean that illness will follow.
How can someone contract it?
Infection can occur when a person breathes in very small water droplets containing Legionella bacteria.
Can it spread from person to person?
Legionnaires’ disease cannot spread from person to person nor by drinking water.
Is it safe to use the water at HSA?
Yes. It has been established by the Department of Environmental Health, Water Authority and an international water treatment consultant that HSA’s potable water has appropriate levels of chlorine at all entry and end points. Chlorine levels control the growth of legionella and other microorganisms, but chlorine naturally dissipates over time when water is not running regularly.
HSA continues to operate with no evidence of a wider risk. HSA has closed off the specific areas and has started implementing Ministry of Health directives that prevent water stagnation. These actions will remain in place until such time as follow-up testing confirms their use is safe.
What is HSA doing in response?
HSA’s actions include:
- Working with the Ministry of Health, Public Health, Department of Environmental Health (DEH), Water Authority Cayman and overseas water treatment consultants.
- Restricting or closing affected areas and water sources where directed.
- Flushing water systems to reduce stagnation.
- Replacing identified water-supply fixtures, such as shower heads.
- Enhancing a comprehensive water management action plan.
Why are some areas closed?
Areas may be closed or restricted as a precaution while remediation, testing or further investigation takes place. They will not be returned to normal use until the appropriate clinical, environmental and public health teams confirm that this is safe.
Why are shower heads or other fixtures being replaced?
Some water-supply fixtures can generate fine water droplets and may also contain areas where water can become stagnant.
Why are water systems being flushed?
Flushing of water systems prevents water stagnation. This will be followed by a scheduled system flush at every water source and enhancing a comprehensive water management action plan designed to reduce opportunities for water stagnation.
Are all services continuing?
Yes.