Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
13 July 2012 09:19
Health officials in Auckland have declared the legionnaires outbreak over
Auckland's Regional Public Health Service has confirmed the city's legionnaires outbreak is officially at an end.
There were 17 cases of Legionella pneumophila (Lp1) between February and July but no source was discovered for the outbreak and, as there have been just two confirmed cases in the past 78 days, it has has now been declared over.
Building owners were advised to shock-dose their cooling systems as a result of the outbreak and Medical Officer of Health Dr Simon Baker said it has at least raised awareness of the risks and the need to monitor vulnerable water systems.
"Legionella bacteria occur naturally in the environment and can reach levels dangerous to people. The Lp1 sub-species is commonly found in warm water systems. This outbreak indicates that maintaining cooling tower surveillance and treatment is of paramount importance," he said.
"Any systems that use stored water without heating or cooling sufficient to kill bacteria need to be carefully monitored for Legionella presence and treated if necessary."
Building owners also had to test for Legionella after three to seven days as a precaution during the outbreak and an inter-agency working party may push for legislative changes to make it mandatory to do so every month.
Auckland Council building control manager Ian McCormick said the group, which includes public health and building industry groups, may also suggest putting cooling towers on a register.
Although the outbreak has been declared over, the incident offers a timely reminder of the need for medical travel insurance before jetting off to New Zealand and other countries.
04 November 2019
Head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun, sea and spectacles of the wild kind.
[more...]
As the nights draw in, we're turning our thoughts to the warmer climes of the Southern Hemisphere and treks in Patagonia that will put a spring in your step...
Escape the UK's shorter autumn days and head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun and sporting fun.
21 October 2019
Struggling for holiday inspiration? Let us inspire you with our list of book-themed breaks.
Check out our top recommendations to make the most of your time in Frankfurt, on the River Maine.
30 October 2019
What quirky customs await you on your travels this Halloween?
Look past the petrifying and discover a side to the Romanian region you never knew...
14 October 2019
Bucharest is the jewel of the Balkans crown - explore the city to find a host of hidden gems.
At the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe lies a country with a story to tell. Check out these must-see sites in Croatia to learn more.
07 October 2019
With Halloween on the horizon we look for destinations across the globe with a decidedly mysterious appeal...
What should you eat in Croatia? Good question. Unrumble that tummy with our rundown of our favourite Croat cuisine.
Where's the best beach in Croatia? We answer that question and more as we look at the Adriatic beaches you won't want to miss out on...