Mild variant of legionella bacteria in Research Lab

During a routine check, legionella bacteria were found in a washbasin in the Research Lab of the University of Groningen/UMCG. It is the mild variant, legionella non pneumophila. The bacteria are not a health risk for staff. No patient care takes place in the building. The water pipes at the Research Lab are separate to those of the UMCG.

The washbasin was immediately taken out of the circuit when the bacteria were found, and thermal cleaning of the basin and the pipes was also started. In the next few days, the area surrounding the washbasin will be subject to preventive research by means of cultures. The work in the Research Lab will continue unabated.