Legionnaires bacteria closes swimming pool (From News Shopper)

Legionnaires bacteria closes swimming pool

10:20am Friday 30th May 2008 in

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A SWIMMING pool was closed yesterday (May 29) after bacteria which can cause Legionnaires disease was found in the showers.

Ladywell pool in Lewisham High Street has been shut until further notice because of the Legionella bacteria.

A spokesman for Lewisham Council said: "We have acted quickly as a precaution to ensure the safety of Ladywell pool users and staff.

"We do not believe there is any immediate danger. There have been no instances of illness reported to us.

"The health and safety of our service users is paramount and the council is working with Parkwood, the borough's leisure centre contractors, to ensure a safe environment.

"The Legionella bacteria was found during a routine check which is designed to detect such problems. Engineers have been on site and are working to rectify the situation."

Legionnaires disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia which can affect anybody, but especially the elderly.

It is caused by breathing in very fine droplets cotaining the Legionella bacteria, which are naturally found in water sources such as lakes.