Bug alert closes off showers at leisure centre

Showers at a Sandwell leisure centre were closed today after bacteria which causes Legionnaires' Disease were discovered during a routine inspection of the water system.

Councillor Bob Badham said: "Routine inspections of the water system at Haden Hill Leisure Centre, in Barrs Road, Cradley Heath, showed the presence of legionella bacteria.

"As a precaution, several showers have been closed in the changing area and we have cleansed and disinfected the water system.

"Water samples have been sent to a water hygiene company for analysis and we are awaiting the results before making a decision on whether to reopen the showers.

"Legionella is a naturally occurring bacteria which is common in many environments. We have a rigorous testing regime which picked up its presence and allowed us to clean and disinfect the system at the earliest opportunity," Councillor Badham added.

Legionnaires' Disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia which principally affects those who are susceptible due to reasons such as age, illness and smoking.

It is caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila and related bacteria that can be found naturally in environmental water sources such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs, usually in low numbers.

As they are commonly found in environmental sources they may also be found in purpose built water systems such as cooling towers, evaporative condensers and whirlpool spas.