Possible legionella discovered at Aberdeenshire Council HQ

The Council say nobody has fallen ill and there is now specialist cleaning taking place.

Author: Lewis MichiePublished 20th May 2021

A type of bacteria called legionella, which can cause causing legionellosis including a pneumonia-type illness called Legionnaires' disease and a mild flu-like illness called Pontiac fever, has been found at Aberdeenshire Council's Headquarters.

The woodhill house unit has been closed whilst specialist cleaning takes place.

A spokesperson for Aberdeenshire Council said: "As part of routine sampling and testing, an early warning flagged that there is a possibility of legionella in the water systems of Woodhill House.

"Specialists are on site cleaning, flushing and re-testing the water. As a result, the building will be closed until the all-clear is provided. Plans were put in place to move staff who must have a presence in an office, and Public Health advice is being shared with colleagues.

"Limited staff and partners are present in the building currently, and have been advised by their line manager of what to look out for."

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