Water mister systems ‘could get you sick this summer’

Having a drink at your favourite pub this summer may lead to you becoming sick according to a new report.
Dangerous pathogens have been found in water misters systems at bars and public spaces around Western Australia, prompting warnings from doctors.
Lead Researcher from the School of Medical & Health Sciences at Edith Cowan University, Dr Edmore Masaka says inhaling these bacteria could lead to the spread of Legionnaires’ Disease and other potentially fatal conditions.
“There are a number of bigs that can grow in these systems,” he said. “Some of these bugs can cause infections in people, especially those with weak immunity.”
The research tested 10 water misting systems around the state, and found the presence of opportunistic premise plumbing pathogens – also know as OPPPs.
“Out of the 90 samples that we collected, 44 per cent of those tested positive with pathogens,” he said.
Dr Masaka says the systems use very little energy which is why they have become so popular.
“Some of these bugs can actually grow in these systems if protective measures are not put in place.”
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