AWWA JAW70098

Immunocompromised individuals in hospitalsare at an increased risk of infection from thepresence of microorganisms in hospital waterdistribution systems. To provide more protectionfor these individuals, a number of options areavailable for adding secondary disinfection protectionto hospital systems to reduce the riskof acquiring Legionnaires' disease. Eachdisinfection alternative has advantages anddisadvantages.This study was undertaken to evaluate thebenefits of using chlorine dioxide as a secondarydisinfectant. Results from two hospitals showedthat the use of chlorine dioxide can significantlyreduce the risk of acquiring Legionnaires' disease.After using chlorine dioxide for a sufficient timeperiod, no cases of healthcare-acquired legionellosiswere identified in the two hospitals studied.When selecting a secondary disinfectant, managersshould also note that the research showed chlorinedioxide reduced the levels of other microorganismsin drinking water and that chlorinedioxide was relatively easy to dose and install,compared with other disinfection options. Includes 42 references, figures.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. 101 - No. 5

Published:

05/01/2009

Number of Pages:

11

File Size:

1 file , 820 KB