Legionella Detected in Pittsburgh VA Medical Center, Prompting Water Restrictions
Two patients at the Pittsburgh VA Medical Center have tested positive for Legionella, the bacteria responsible for Legionnaires’ Disease. This discovery has led the hospital to implement water restrictions and begin treating, flushing, and testing water lines. The Allegheny County Health Department has not been notified, as testing positive for Legionella does not necessarily indicate Legionnaires’ Disease. The bacteria can grow in water pipes, and inhaling contaminated water droplets can lead to infection. The Pittsburgh VA Medical Center has a history of Legionella outbreaks, with a significant incident in 2011-2012 that resulted in six deaths and 22 illnesses. Following that outbreak, the VA implemented several recommendations to improve water treatment and testing protocols. 
