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New results show no live legionella at St. Columbkille Parish in Parma

Posted at 9:30 AM, Aug 10, 2018
and last updated 2018-08-10 10:15:57-04

New test results from the latest samples taken at St. Columbkille Parish reveal that no live legionella bacteria has been detected, the Cuyahoga County Board of Health reports.

The samples were taken from various sources at the church, including a drinking fountain in the basement, air units and hand sinks.

The test did indicate the presence of non-viable (dead cells) legionella bacteria in the basement's drinking fountain. The bacteria can occur naturally in fresh water environments, according to Christopher Kippes from the board of health.

Kippes said essentially there should be no cause for concern because it shows the chlorine in our water is doing its job of killing any live bacteria.

RELATEDFirst round of sampling forlegionellaat St. Columbkille Parish comes back negative

The church has started working with Osborn Engineering to conduct a more intensive review of the church's air conditioning system.

In July, officials confirmed seven cases of legionella—one of those cases included a 93-year-old  Parma woman who died.

There have been no new reported legionellla cases involving St. Columbkille parishioners.

The air conditioning at the church will remain out of service until the parish addresses the board of health's recommendation.