On Thursday, 13 September 2018 results from routine sampling of the cooling towers at Palmerston Regional Hospital returned a positive reading for legionella. 

This is not related to the mechanical duct work.

The legionella bacteria is commonly harboured in cooling towers, water filtration and hot water systems.

There is no safety risk to patients, staff or visitors at the Palmerston Regional Hospital. 

The Top End Health Service is committed to providing a safe environment for all staff, patients and visitors at Palmerston Regional Hospital and have enacted an immediate response to the incident.

Chlorine treatment has occurred in accordance with Australian Standards.

Staff and patients have been advised of the detection can be assured the detection poses no risk to their health.  

The Top End Health Service is committed to providing safe, high quality care to patients and will continue routine.

Media contact 0437 190 271