The Alfred hospital has detected legionella organisms in a staff area of the hospital.A hospital spokeswoman confirmed a positive reading was detected late last week during regular testing of its warm water system.

"The reading was isolated to one staff shower that was used infrequently," the spokeswoman told theage.com.au.
"It didn't impact on any patient areas. We've had no reported staff cases."

The spokeswoman said the warm-water system was immediately treated by the hospital's engineering department, which heated the water to a temperature at which no legionella organisms could survive.

"As per normal practice, the area was closed and staff were advised of the positive reading," the spokeswoman said.
"They were provided with information and asked to contact their GP, the staff health clinic or the Alfred emergency department if they have any symptoms."

The spokeswoman said it was important to note that most people exposed to legionella do not become infected.
Legionnaires' disease is an extremely rare form of pneumonia. Those who are most are those who smoke, are over 55, have chronic lung disease and are immuno-compromised.

Early symptoms of the disease resemble those of the flu and may include headache, fever, chills, muscle aches and pains and a dry cough followed by shortness of breath.

The disease can also affect other bodily systems, resulting in diarrhoea, confusion and kidney failure.
Legionella organisms are commonly found in lakes, rivers, soil, potting mix, air conditioning cooling towers and reticulated water systems.
 
http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/legionnaires-alert-at-hospital/2007/06/18/1182018987958