When we think of Legionella and Legionnaires’ disease, what comes to mind are cooling towers and other man-made water systems. Rarely do we think of compost. However, compost may contain the potentially deadly Legionella bacteria. In fact, cases of legionellosis caused by Legionella bacteria in compost have been reported worldwide. In October 2013, a case […]
How Germs Affect the Air Quality Inside of Your Car
Often, we think about the air quality in our homes or offices. But have you ever thought about the air quality inside of your car? Well, it is something to consider…A ventilation system and passenger cabin of almost every vehicle on the road is a great home for germs and harmful allergens. You could be putting […]
Filamentous Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment
Filamentous Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment Filamentous bacteria can be a problem in wastewater treatment. Wastewater treatment is essential for human health and environment, as well as to protect and maintain the environment from the distribution of pollution and water-borne diseases. Human sewage and waste from industries are the main sources of wastewater. Biological wastewater treatment […]
Is Legionnaires’ Disease a Problem in Canada?
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella bacteria. It is a potentially fatal respiratory disease characterised by severe pneumonia. At least 50 species and 70 strains (serotypes) of Legionella bacteria have been identified. Over 90% of Legionnaires’ disease cases are caused by Legionella pneumophila. The first recorded outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease was in 1976 in Philadelphia, […]
Sewage Backup – Why Test For Total Coliform, Fecal Coliform and Enterococcus
Sewage backup could lead to sewage contamination of the occupied spaces. Exposure to sewage contamination increases the risk of contracting diseases of the digestive system and other related illnesses. Potential disease causing organisms in sewage contamination include Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. Testing for all possible disease causing microorganisms (pathogens) after sewage backup could be […]