Evanston YWCA Reopens after Legionnaires’ Scare
Safety Measures in Place to Ensure Clean Water Supply
The YWCA Evanston/North campus reopened on Thursday after taking necessary steps to eliminate Legionella bacteria from its hot water supply. The campus was closed on October 10th out of an abundance of caution after the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) detected Legionella bacteria in the hot water supply.
What is Legionnaires’ Disease?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Legionnaires’ disease is a serious respiratory infection caused by bacteria that grows in water. The most common way to contract the disease is by breathing in mist containing Legionella.
Cleanup and Reopening
The YWCA followed cleanup guidelines from the IDPH to ensure a safe return to its facilities. The measures included:
* New water filters
* Increased chlorine levels
* Hot water temperatures
The YWCA assured that the health and safety of everyone in its community is its top priority and that it has followed all recommended guidelines and precautions to ensure a safe return to its facilities.
What’s Next?
The YWCA will continue to monitor its water supply and will shut off its building’s water fountains until it receives the OK from its new water management consultant. The nonprofit’s programs will resume, with the exception of its culinary program and financial empowerment center, which will restart on Monday.
Conclusion
The YWCA’s swift action and commitment to ensuring a safe environment demonstrate its dedication to the well-being of its community. Its reopening is a testament to the importance of prioritizing public health and safety in the face of a potential health crisis.
FAQs
* Why did the YWCA close its campus? The YWCA closed its campus out of an abundance of caution after detecting Legionella bacteria in the hot water supply.
* What is Legionnaires’ disease? Legionnaires’ disease is a serious respiratory infection caused by bacteria that grows in water.
* What steps did the YWCA take to ensure its reopening? The YWCA followed cleanup guidelines from the IDPH, including new water filters, increased chlorine levels, and hot water temperatures.
* What’s next for the YWCA? The YWCA will continue to monitor its water supply and will shut off its building’s water fountains until it receives the OK from its new water management consultant.
