HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Cabell Huntington Hospital officials confirmed the discovery of Legionella bacteriea in a limited area of the hospital. Legionella is the source for Legionaires disease.
In a statement Friday, hospital officials confirmed a probable case of the illness due to the bacteria and reported it to the Cabell-Huntington Health Departmetn as well as the West Virginia Bureau of Public Health. The agencies coordinated environmental assessmetns according to CDC Guidelines. Hospital officials said the resul was enhanced filtration on sink faucets and shower heads as preventative measures.
“We want to reassure our community that patient safety remains our top priority. Our hospital is fully operational, and we are taking all necessary steps to evaluate and prevent any risk of Legionella exposure,” said Hospital COO Tim Martin in a statement released Friday.