Title: Rapid Testing Reducing Risk and Liability during Legionella Outbreak Belgium
Learner Objectives:
Based on experience help other peolple to prevent Legionella outbreak and practical advise how to follow op and solve problem in case of positieve Legionella testing.
Content/Topic Outline:
Presenter:
Mrs Veermeer Anne-Mie graduated as engineer biochemistry in 1997. Mrs veermeer is already 13 years working at EKOPAK BVBA, an indutsrial water treating company, of wich 6 years already as bussinesmanger of the disinfection department of EKPAK BVBA. Mrs Veermeer built out and manages this devision ever since. Through continuous training and interest in the newest techniques in the market, Mrs. Veermeer became a specialist in disinfection of water and water related disinfection topics.
Presentation Description:
A Case Study: Interval Rapid Antigen Testing for Risk and Liability Reduction in Industrial Settings Following High-Profile Legionella Outbreak in Belgium
A.Veermeer
In May of 2019, Belgium was affected by a Legionella outbreak in Ghent that sickened a total of 32 people and took 2 lives. As casualties mounted, it became apparent that alternative testing methods, other than laboratory culture, that were quicker, would allow businesses and facilities to react to the outbreak and reduce prolonged exposure to Legionella risk. An evaluation of available technologies was conducted based on the criteria of providing fast, accurate, on-site testing that was cost-effective. A rapid antigen detection test was selected which fulfilled the criteria.
To mitigate the risk, Ekopak contacted sites in the affected region and offered to provide results for Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 (LpSG1) using Lateral Flow Test Technology. The rapid antigen test used was incredibly accessible, required no specialist training to carry out and returned results in 25 minutes as opposed to 10 – 14 days.
Following the Ghent outbreak, and the successful application of this real-time, on-site management strategy, the rapid antigen test was rolled out to customers across Belgium to minimise the time taken to detect Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 in built environments and to maintain vigilant control of water systems on behalf of their clients. This paper will cover the methodology which was applied during the Ghent outbreak and new research which explores the impact that interval rapid antigen testing has for risk and liability reduction in cooling towers and other evaporating systems, where ideal temperature conditions for Legionella growth pose a significant threat to public health. Potential applications in which immediate and accurate antigen testing would be valuable and appropriate will also be considered.
Presenter Bio:
Legionella is a known bacterium, but the spread and consequences of infection are unfortunately still a taboo for many. In Belgium we have more than 100 customers who rely specifically on disinfection and prevention of legionella. Through good communication and education of the people involved, a lot can be prevented, which is a very important goal for me personally. In order to be able to pass this on optimally, I try to follow all new developments in the market and, based on knowledge and experience, pick out the most efficient ones and offer them to our customers. The right technology still needs to be implemented in the right place in the right way to be a success, and that's where we distinguish ourselves. Every question is studied and a suitable solution is offered specifically for this problem. The moment the customer has a problem we are there to support them and work out a solution together.