Jeongeup City Conducts 'Legionella Bacteria' Tests at Multi-Use Facilities

Until the 22nd of Next Month...
Public Institutions, Large Marts, Hospitals, and More

Jeongeup City Public Health Center in Jeonbuk will conduct Legionella bacteria tests for 20 multi-use facilities, including public institutions, large marts, hospitals, and accommodation facilities, until the 22nd of next month.

According to Jeongeup City Public Health Center on July 21, this inspection is a proactive measure to prevent infectious diseases transmitted through water systems such as cooling water and public baths during the hot and humid summer season.

Jeonbuk Jeongeup City Public Health Center will conduct Legionella bacteria tests for 20 multi-use facilities, including public institutions, large marts, hospitals, and accommodation facilities, over four weeks until the 22nd of next month. Provided by Jeongeup City Public Health Center

Legionellosis, a third-class legally notifiable infectious disease, is caused by Legionella bacteria that live in water. The bacteria can infect the respiratory system in droplet form through contaminated cooling water from air conditioners or water in large facilities. Unlike common respiratory diseases, it is closely related to water quality management, making the management of facility environments such as cooling water especially important.

This disease is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses. Symptoms may include fever, chills, dry cough, and muscle pain. If treatment is delayed, it can progress to pneumonia, so early detection and prevention are essential.

For these tests, the city health center will visit multi-use facilities in person to collect environmental samples, which will then be sent to the Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province Institute of Health and Environment for analysis. If Legionella bacteria levels exceed the standard, the affected facility will undergo cleaning and disinfection, followed by a retest for intensive management.

Son Heekyung, head of the public health center, stated, "Summer is a period when Legionella bacteria can easily proliferate, so we urge everyone to pay special attention to water quality and environmental management at related facilities," and added, "Please do your utmost to implement thorough preventive measures such as cleaning and disinfection to prevent infection among the general public."