AWWA JAW70098

Immunocompromised individuals in hospitals are at an increased risk of infection from the presence of microorganisms in hospital water distribution systems. To provide more protection for these individuals, a number of options are available for adding secondary disinfection protection to hospital systems to reduce the risk of acquiring Legionnaires' disease. Each disinfection alternative has advantages and disadvantages. This study was undertaken to evaluate the benefits of using chlorine dioxide as a secondary disinfectant. Results from two hospitals showed that the use of chlorine dioxide can significantly reduce the risk of acquiring Legionnaires' disease. After using chlorine dioxide for a sufficient time period, no cases of healthcare-acquired legionellosis were identified in the two hospitals studied. When selecting a secondary disinfectant, managers should also note that the research showed chlorine dioxide reduced the levels of other microorganisms in drinking water and that chlorine dioxide was relatively easy to dose and install, compared with other disinfection options. Includes 42 references, figures.