Whilst water systems may not seem to be high on the priority list during the COVID-19 pandemic it is important for the health and safety of patients and staff, that water systems within dental practices, including Dental Unit Water Lines and associated equipment are managed safely. Where dental settings have been closed or had reduced use over the past few months because of COVID-19 it is important that water systems are managed so they do not pose a risk of infection. This Guidelines document aims to provide dental care providers guidance on keeping their water lines safe. Read the full document here

This guidance is aimed at care homes, nursing homes and other residential settings where there are patients and residents being treated for COVID-19 or for patients with increased susceptibility to infections such as those transferred from hospitals to make way for COVID-19 patients. It is essential that appropriate testing of water systems and patients is carried out to protect both patients and staff from unrecognised outbreaks of waterborne infections including those caused by Legionella. Read the full document here

This guidance is aimed at hospitals, temporary and converted buildings or parts of buildings and field hospitals used for treating COVID-19 patients. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has a significant potential to increase the risks of waterborne infections, including Legionnaire’s disease, over and above the inherent public health impact of the pandemic. It is therefore essential, that appropriate testing of both water systems and patients is carried out to protect both patients and staff from unrecognised outbreaks of waterborne infections including Legionnaires’ disease. Read the full document here

ESGLI has put together a guidance document on how to best manage Legionella in building water systems during this COVID-19 outbreak. It is very important that while many buildings and offices are shut down due to the pandemic, that water systems are still well maintained to prevent future health issues like Legionella outbreaks. The procedures outlined here will help maintain water systems during this outbreak. Read the full document here

This edition updates advice on risk assessments and the management of newly recognised sources of infection, and offers a standardised approach to procedures for preventing and investigating Legionella infections associated with travel taking into account the World Health’ Organisations’ approach to managing water safety within buildings. Read the full document here