Microbiology services

Clostridium perfringens -

A type of bacterium which produces spores and can be present in the intestines of animals and humans. Spores are particularly resistant to disinfection using chlorine and their presence in drinking water could indicate historic or soil contamination.

Enterococci/ Faecal streptococci -

Enterococci are generally found in the intestines of animals and humans. These organisms form a secondary indicator of faecal contamination in water and as such their presence in water may constitute a risk to health.

Legionella -

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella pneumophila and other Legionella species. It is characterised as an acute febrile respiratory illness ranging in severity from mild illness (Pontiac Fever) to fatal pneumonia.

The major reservoir of Legionella species appears to be fresh water sites, air-conditioning units and various water plumbing fixtures.

Legionella pneumophila strains and other Legionella species are isolated from patients with pneumonia and from the environment (mainly water).

Endoscopy Rinse Waters -

Endoscopes should be rinsed after the disinfection stage of cleaning to remove any residual chemical toxicity. The rinse water should be free from extraneous material, which could compromise the patient. Routine Colony counts should be made on the final rinse water. The colony count results will give an indication of the water treatment system performance and microbial colonisation of the pipework.

Pseudomonas -

These are bacteria which have a widespread environmental occurrence and are frequently associated with swimming pools and other recreational water facilities rather than water supplies.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa -

Pseudomonas aeruginosa are environmental bacteria commonly found in soil and on plants. The organisms are able to grow in waters containing very low levels of nutrients and should be absent in all drinking waters.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa are opportunistic pathogens, particularly in humans who are immune-compromised.