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OPRF showers found with Legionella bacteria re-open after cleaning
Updated: December 16, 2012 6:22AM
OAK PARK — Legionella bacteria that led to the closing of two gym showers at Oak Park-River Forest High School last month has been eliminated and the showers re-opened for use, the school said Friday.
District 200 Superintendent Stephen Isoye said in a statement that the two showers “show no further traces of Legionella” following disinfection and retesting.
The Legionella bacteria strain, which can cause Legionaire’s disease, was discovered during routine voluntary water testing the district initiated at the high school earlier this year.
In an Oct. 26 email to parents, Isoye said the Oak Park and Illinois departments of public health assured school officials that the Legionella bacteria “commonly is found in water and water fixtures, and that it is safe for students to continue using other showers, which were not found to contain the bacteria.”
The high school initiated the testing program six months ago, based on guidelines from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration and other experts.
In a follow-up email Friday, Isoye said District 200 will continue be exercise vigilance regarding building water sources.
“We will continue to randomly test water sources throughout the building and follow the standard recommendations for disinfection as needed,” Isoye said. “We are confident that these best practices will help us maintain a healthful and safe environment for everyone who comes to our building.”
