The University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus has lifted precautionary tap water restrictions following detection of the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia dangerous for older people and those with weakened immune systems.
The bacteria was found as part of “aggressive surveillance” by the hospital of its water system, said Tiffani Washington, a spokeswoman for the Baltimore hospital, adding there have been no infections among patients. Water restrictions were lifted Wednesday.
Legionella is a common bacteria, and it’s not unusual to find it in the plumbing, particularly in older buildings with large and complex water systems. It was most recently identified in the building that federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement uses to detain undocumented immigrants. It’s also been found in State Center, a complex of buildings that houses several Maryland agencies and local courthouse buildings.
Washington said the difference is that as a health facility, officials take extensive steps to find the bacteria and use restrictions on tap water out of an abundance of caution.
The bacteria isn’t typically harmful to healthy people, but it can be tricky to pinpoint and fully eradicate.
In memos to staff, UMMC Midtown officials said the bacteria was found during regular testing going back to at least December. Patients were asked to use bottled water for brushing teeth and wipes for bathing. Tap water was deemed safe for hand washing and toilet flushing.





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