Can Legionnaires disease be prevented?
Yes. Avoiding water conditions that allow the organism to grow to high levels is the best means of prevention. Specific preventive steps include: Regularly maintain and clean cooling towers and evaporative condensers to prevent growth of LDB. This should include twice-yearly cleaning and periodic use of chlorine or other effective biocide. Maintain domestic water heaters at 60°C (140°F). The temperature of the water should be 50°C (122°F) or higher at the faucet. Avoid conditions that allow water to stagnate.
