Following the discovery of Legionella bacteria in the water on the Bibby Stockholm barge in Dorset, asylum seekers are being removed from the vessel.
As a precaution, it is likely that everyone on board will be relocated to different housing.
Meetings regarding the subject are reportedly being presided over by immigration minister Robert Jenrick.
Legionnaires’ disease is a dangerous lung infection that can be brought on by the Legionella bacteria, which is frequently present in water. No one on the barge has displayed any symptoms of the illness.
Legionella Bacteria Testing
The water supply was initially routinely tested on July 25 but, according to Sky News, the findings did not come in until August 7, the same day that asylum seekers started boarding the barge.
The government is awaiting the results of additional testing, but there have been concerns raised about what the administration knew and when.
The health and welfare of individuals on board the ship was described as “our utmost priority” by a Home Office official.
“Environmental samples from the water system on the Bibby Stockholm have shown levels of legionella bacteria which require further investigation,” they stated.
Following these findings, the Home Office has been closely collaborating with the UKHSA (UK Health Security Agency), adhering to its recommendations in accordance with well-established public health procedures, and ensuring that all protocol from the environmental health team at Dorset Council and the Dorset NHS is followed.
“As a precaution, all 39 asylum seekers who boarded the ship this week are being discharged while more evaluations are carried out.
“No one on board has displayed symptoms of Legionnaires’, and asylum seekers are receiving the necessary guidance and assistance.
“The tests taken pertain only to the water system on the vessel itself, and as such, neither fresh water entering the vessel nor a direct risk indicator for the greater Portland community are implicated.
The phrase “Legionnaires’ disease does not spread from person to person.”
If you are worried about a legionella bacteria breakout where you are, contact L8 Risk Management who will offer a full compliance support and risk management consultancy service.
