Deadly bacteria at more Qld facilities A STRAIN of legionella bacteria that killed a patient at a Brisbane hospital has been found in two more Queensland health facilities. In total 29 facilities have tested positive for legionella pneumophila. Queensland Health revealed on Friday that Yaralla Place Aged Care Facility on the Fraser Coast and Mount Perry Health Centre in the North Burnett Region had tested positive. The bacteria has been found in complex care areas, which could refer to cancer or transplant wards. Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Stephen Lambert says patients and staff should not be alarmed. We believe there is no risk to patients or staff and we have not had a case of hospital acquired legionnaires disease since the two cases at the Wesley Hospital. The water tests of health facilities across Queensland were ordered after the bacteria killed a cancer patient and left another patient in intensive care earlier this month. The disease is contracted when people breathe in water vapours containing the bacteria. Stagnant or warm water of up to 50 degrees found in shower roses, hot water taps, hot water tanks, pipes and hoses can harbour the bacteria. Of the 241 facilities undergoing testing, 153 have reported results. About three per cent have indicated the presence of legionella pneumophila. Treatment involves flushing water systems with hot water at 70 degrees or disinfecting the outlet. Re-testing is then carried out.