Our consultant in Microbiology, Gavin Boyd, wants to remind colleagues of the importance of regularly flushing taps throughout the Trust to help reduce the risks of legionella.

Gavin said:  "Legionella can live in water systems, particularly in large buildings with extensive pipework, such as our hospitals. In periods of warmer weather, the ‘cold’ water temperature is too warm,  which can create better growth conditions for legionella. If it starts to grow in the water system, it can be very difficult to get rid of, and can put patients at significant risk of  infections.

"As well as trying to maintain water at the right temperatures to prevent growth of legionella, regular flushing of water outlets (i.e. taps, showers and baths) keeps the water moving and can prevent the build-up of the bacteria.

"We normally recommend that unused water outlets are flushed for two minutes per day, although at the moment we're asking that water outlets at the ends of wards (furthest from the doors) are flushed for five minutes three times per day, irrespective of how regularly used they are. This will help draw water through the system and reduce the risks of Legionella  [potentially building up in the system".