Legionella is a waterborne bacterial pathogen responsible for Legionnaires’ disease. It can grow within any water system at a facility, building, or manufacturing location. Transmission of Legionnaires Disease occurs through aerosolization or aspiration of contaminated water droplets. Water droplets from that device are able to get into the lungs, like the mist from a shower or even exhaust from building HVAC systems. Legionnaires’ disease is particularly dangerous (and can be deadly) for the vulnerable, immunocompromised population. Testing regularly helps to avoid financial setbacks and other liabilities.

There are several different types of tests for Legionella.
Culture testing is considered the gold standard for detecting and confirming the presence of Legionella bacteria in water samples. Culture testing typically takes 7-14 days to provide accurate and reliable test results. Also, culture testing can identify Legionella species and serogroups, including those beyond Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1, which is the most common cause of Legionnaires’ disease.

PCR Testing for Legionella is also a highly effective method for detecting Legionella DNA in water samples. It offers high sensitivity and specificity, ensuring accurate identification of the bacteria. We use qPCR testing – a technique provides rapid results, typically within 24-48 hours, allowing for swift action if necessary. Importantly, PCR can detect both viable and non-viable Legionella cells. Generally, however, PCR tests are designed to specifically detect L. pneumophila, and not all the subspecies.

Legionella antigen tests are used both for diagnosing Legionnaires’ disease in individuals and for detecting the presence of Legionella bacteria in water systems. Lateral flow Immunochromatographic assays (a type of antigen test) can give a result on Legionella pneumophila SG1 within 25 minutes.

With Legionella prevention, the goal is to regularly test your water to make sure your facility remains compliant with regulations and your occupants are safe so that no Legionella bacteria has developed within your water systems.

Remediation occurs after a Legionella outbreak (defined by the CDC as two or more individuals who have contracted Legionnaire’s Disease). In this case, you’ll want to act quickly to make sure to stop the spread of Legionella bacteria and eradicate it.

At IWC Innovations, our expert teams provide both services.

Legionella tends to thrive in warm water environments commonly found in systems such as cooling towers, hot water tanks, hot tubs or spas (especially in hospitality settings), decorative fountains, and even faucets and showerheads. Testing requirements vary depending on the type of facility, industry regulations, and areas of highest risk. To determine the right approach for your facility, contact our Legionella experts today—we’re here to help.

Culture testing, which is more comprehensive, can take 7 to 14 days.
PCR testing can provide results within 24-48 hours.

Yes, we work with companies and facilities to create detailed water management/water safety plans. In some industries such as healthcare (hospitals/clinics and senior living facilities) such plans are typically mandatory and required by law. A plan will outline both prevention and control/remediation measures for Legionella or other waterborne pathogens.