Water pipes which have been at rest could lead to Legionnaires’ Disease

Posted on June 1, 2020
Whether it’s opening up the vacation home for the season or finally getting back to the office, the water pipes pose a problem. (Photo courtesy: Alliance to Prevent Legionaries’ Disease)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – So you are going back to the office for the first time in a while. Those water pipes which have been at rest could now carry a problem.

Brad Considine of the Alliance to Prevent Legionnaires’ Disease explains the bacteria buildup.

“These disruptions can change the consumption rates of water and lead to stagnation,” said Considine. “Stagnation can lead to bacterial development and growth. It can result in disinfectants that are put into the water at the water treatment facility to dissipate, and the buildup of bacteria can re-occur. As we restart the economic activity, water consumption rates will go up, and it will potentially impact the flow of water through the utilities right to our homes and buildings.”

Considine says the CDC has a Legionnaires’ Toolkit. Another piece of advice: flush, flush, flush.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]. 

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