The Department has published a report relating to a review of the scientific evidence regarding the contamination of hospital water supplies and outlets with Pseudomonads. This information was considered by the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Dame Sally C Davies, in August 2011 and this report reflects information available at that time.
The output from the review exercise helped inform the development of the Department of Health’s action plan and programme of work to address Pseudomonas contamination of water sources and water systems. This led to the production of new infection control advice and technical guidance, which was issued earlier this year.
The Department is currently undertaking additional work to inform the development of an addendum to the existing Estates guidance, Health Technical Memorandum 04-01: The control of Legionella, hygiene, “safe” hot water, cold water and drinking water systems to address issues relating to Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This is expected to be available March 2013.