176
exposures. The problem is not associated with the existence of bacteria in
nature, but when the systems developed by man concentrates to the bacteria
population, develops and multiplies uncontrollably then having individuals
with compromised susceptibility exposed to it. This small bacteria (between
0.3 and 0.9 microns) facultative intracellular parasite lives in the water and
can invade the cells of different protozoa that can be in virtually any water
system that does not have proper hygiene conditions. Bacteria multiply
in water temperatures between 20 and 60 degrees C, with pH between 5
and 9, the corrosion and the calcium and magnesium salts facilitate its
development. Unfortunately in most water systems, only a portion is visible
as most pipes are not able to be inspected and it is precisely there that the
protozoa biofilm colony grows that are the perfect hosts for these bacteria.
Like all parasites these bacteria once installed inside the cells of these
Protozoa, begin their exponential multiplication if the conditions are right,
burst the cell wall and are then released into the water where it can get in
contact with possible victims. Virtually any system can hold them such as
cooling towers, storage tanks, showers, spas, hot tubs, trays condensates
air conditioners, decorative fountains, lakes etc. And those same systems
if they lack the proper precautions and maintenance, can be the source of
an outbreak of
Legionella
as in the hotel Legionnaires in Philadelphia. It
has happened in several buildings in Spain, Mexico, USA, industrial plants
and refineries in England, France, several cruises and resort hotels and
most likely in our countries too. The problem is so critical that in most of
the European countries, is mandatory by law within the operating permits
of buildings and plants, all the systems with water should monitor any
risk through audits and analysis of quarterly pathogens in water. In USA,
industry and buildings with risks as cooling towers and storage tanks, will
