EP&TA Lab performs testing for the detection of the Legionnaires Disease in water samples using modern molecular biology techniques such as PCR and Immunofluorescence in addition to the traditional techniques using agar plates according the Legionella spp ISO 11731..

 

Legionnaires Disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia which can affect anybod, but principally affects those who are susceptible because of age, illness, immunosuppression, smoking etc.Itis caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila and related bacteria that can be found naturally in environmental water sources such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs, usually in low numbers. As they are commonly found in environmental sources they may also be found in purpose built water systems such as cooling towers, evaporative condensers and whirlpool spas. If conditions are favorable the bacterium may grow creating conditions in which the risk from legionnaires' disease is increased. It is therefore important to control the risks by introducing measures outlined in the Approved Code of Practice & Guidance.

 

At EP&TA Lab we provide diagnosis for Legionella disease using modern molecular biology techniques such as PCR and Immunofluorescence in addition to the traditional techniques using agar plates. The PCR method gives us the advantage to provide a first indication (negative or positive) the second day of testing. Using the traditional techniques 10 days are required for the result.