Legionella is a genus of gram positive bacteria that includes several strains. The genus has several recognised subtypes that are responsible for causing infections of water systems and aquifers. Common sources of contamination include septic tanks, fertilizer and municipal waste water systems, storm water run off and even bottled waters that are imported or brought in to meet local needs. As such, it can pose a significant risk to human health. In the process of detecting the presence of legionella in a sample, an independent laboratory must collect a number of samples from different places in order to accurately determine the species of bacteria present. This is done by drawing water from the point at which it enters the home or water system using faucets and samples are then taken as far away as possible from the point of contamination.

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The first step in the process involves sample collection. Once all parties involved in the sample collection consent have given their approval, a number of sample bottles are sent to a laboratory. Depending on the size of the sample, samples may be sent via mail or picked up directly from a laboratory. All laboratory personnel involved with the testing process are required to wear protective clothing in order to protect themselves against particles in the drinking water, as well as any potential airborne bacteria.

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Once the samples are collected, they are sent for testing. Legionella is tested for a number of different factors to identify if it is the cause of the outbreak of legionnaires disease or another type of pneumonia. Typically the pathogen is tested using both culture and molecular biology approaches. Cultures are taken from a small number of sample bottles and compare them to samples from the affected areas of the county to identify the bacteria’s geographical location. Molecular biology tests are performed to identify the genetic makeup of the bacteria, to discover if the pathogen is changing and to identify any genetic differences among various strains. These steps allow medical experts to make an accurate diagnosis of legionnaires disease and, in most cases, successfully treat the infection.