Legionella bug closed mental health ward - report

The discovery of Legionella bacteria led to the closure of an adult mental health ward, a report has revealed.

Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) said a high count of the bacteria was detected in water on Aston Ward at the Lister Hospital, Stevenage, earlier this year.

Breathing in water droplets containing the bacteria can cause Legionnaires' disease, a potentially life-threatening lung infection.

A Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation spokesperson said: "We have no further concerns about the levels and continue to monitor in line with our trust water safety policy."

The report was presented to an ICB board meeting which had infection prevention control among its key priorities.

It stated: "High counts of legionella were reported in water samples from the ward, which is managed by the Hertfordshire Partnership Foundation Trust (HPFT)."

The ward was reopened after consultation and the water system is now flushed three times weekly with more frequent testing.

The ICB said: "Water safety experts were consulted for the Lister site, including a site visit which has taken place and water sampling has been completed."

Legionella bacteria are present in most water, but are usually found in very low concentrations in public water systems.

Health trusts are responsible for maintaining their own water safety policies, meaning they regularly monitor levels to take action if they rise.

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