Britain: Deadly germ discovered to be transmitted through London water taps

 

Drinking water 

Britain: Deadly germ discovered to be transmitted through London water taps

British health experts have detected a serious, potentially fatal lung disease transmitted through showers and water taps. They found the germ causing it in two areas within the British capital, London, raising concerns and fears that what was discovered could be the prelude to a new epidemic.

A report published by the British newspaper "Metro" and seen by "Al Arabiya Net" stated that health experts are currently working urgently to determine whether the outbreaks of this disease are linked to each other, and are tracing the steps to try to identify its possible source.

The discovered germ causes a disease called "Legitimate Forces," a type of pneumonia transmitted by inhaling tiny water droplets containing infectious bacteria.
The disease is usually transmitted from devices such as air conditioners, humidifiers, hot tubs, and water taps and showers that are not used frequently.

Most infections have been reported as isolated individual cases, but the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has indicated the possibility of outbreaks of this disease.
The disease is usually treated with antibiotics, and most infected people recover completely after a few weeks.

The UK Health Security Agency typically records around 300 cases of this disease annually in England and Wales.
Dr. Janice Low, a health protection consultant at the British Health Association in London, said: "At this stage, a common source of infection has not been confirmed, but we are conducting further investigations in collaboration with our partners, which will provide us with additional information."

She added: "Leguonella bacteria are widespread in the environment and can multiply in large water systems within buildings. It is important to maintain water systems properly by carrying out periodic testing and treatment to ensure that the bacteria do not multiply and cause any health risk."

She continued: "Signs and symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include flu-like symptoms such as muscle aches, fatigue, headache, dry cough, and fever. People experiencing these symptoms should contact the NHS or their GP for medical advice."
Britain has seen several high-profile cases of Legionnaires' disease in recent years. Last year, 57-year-old Donna Jopling went into a coma after contracting the infection while on an all-inclusive holiday in Greece.

In 2023, 39 asylum seekers were evacuated from the barge "Beby Stockholm" after Legionella bacteria were discovered in the drinking water. A prisoner also died at Lincoln Prison after contracting Legionnaires' disease; water samples taken from his cell and the prison's toilets showed the presence of Legionella bacteria. A company providing services at the prison was later fined £600,000 for failing to meet health and safety standards.