Waterborne Pathogen Filters for Commercial Use

Waterborne Pathogen Health Risks & Solutions

Problems in Water

Clean water is one of the most important resources used every day for patients in healthcare settings and residents of Adult Living Facilities (ALF). Despite extensive purification at water treatment facilities, upon entering municipal distribution pipes, water can become contaminated after contact with biofilms. Biofilms are bacterial communities that result from ideal growth conditions such as warm, stagnant water found in dead legs. These bacterial communities are heat and chemical resistant making complete removal of biofilms nearly impossible through disinfection and flushing methods.

Biofilms and Bacteria

The microorganisms that shed from biofilms are typically in small enough concentrations that healthy individuals are not at risk of infection. However, these microbes present a danger to at-risk individuals such as the immunocompromised or elderly. To these at-risk populations, opportunistic waterborne pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterium (NTM), and Legionella pneumophila can cause serious infection or even death. Additionally, with the emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), the risk of health complications if infected is much higher. It is critical for facilities to ensure a high standard of water quality.

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Legionella 101

List of Waterborne Pathogens

Challenges in Healthcare and Beyond

In the healthcare and lifecare field, caretakers and providers must face the challenge of nosocomial infection from waterborne pathogens. Around 7% of all healthcare associated infections result from P. aeruginosa while the incidence of Legionellosis has more than tripled between 2007 and 2018 (1)(2). A comprehensive plan of action is required by the new water management standard for hospitals, critical access hospitals, and nursing care centers (EC.02.05.02, EPs 1 through 4) (3). While there are several methods to approach a bacterial contamination event, POU filtration is a simple, immediate, and cost-effective solution that does not compromise safety.

Point-of-Use Solutions

For more than a decade, Point-of-Use (POU) filtration has been established as a successful method for infection prevention by providing a critical barrier between waterborne pathogens and at-risk individuals (4). POU filters can be installed quickly, minimizing interference of regular operations while maintaining the safety of occupants. Whether you are planning proactive measures for your water management plan or responding to an active emergency, POU filtration provides confidence and reliability when defending against waterborne pathogens.

AQM Commitment

AquaMedix has been providing POU filters to deliver clean water to healthcare facilities for over 10 years. With high-performance membrane technology tested to industry standards (ASTM F838 >7 log reduction) and designed to fit the needs of customers, AquaMedix is a leader in infection prevention through POU filtration. Combined with longer filter lifetime and a range of installation kits that make responding to water quality emergencies easier, AquaMedix can help keep your facility safe and provide guidance and support in the instance of an outbreak. If you are responsible for your facilities’ water management plan or have concerns about your facilities’ water system, contact us today to learn more about how POU filters fit into your water management plan.

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References

(1). Reynolds, D., Kollef, M. “The Epidemiology and Pathogenesis and Treatment of P. Aeruginosa Infections: An Update”. Drugs. V. 81. P. 2117-2131. 2021. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-021-01635-6

(2). Gleason, Jessie A., Cohn, Perry D., “A review of legionnaires’ disease and public water systems – Scientific considerations, uncertainties and recommendations”. International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health. V. 240, March 2022. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113906

(3). The Joint Commission (2021). New Standard for Water Management Program – Hospitals, Critical Access Hospitals, and Nursing Care Centers. (EC.02.05.02, EP1-4). https://www.jointcommission.org/-/media/tjc/documents/standards/r3-reports/r3-report-water-management-final_nov1.pdf

(4). Sheffer, Patricia J., Stout, Janet E., Wagener, Marilyn M., Muder, Robert R. “Efficacy of new point-of-use water filter for preventing exposure to Legionella and waterborne bacteria”. American Journal of Infection Control. V. 33, I. 5, June 2005. P. S20-S25. DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2005.03.012

Is Point-of-Use filtration included in your water management plan?

Point of use filtration offers immediate and long-term protection from waterborne pathogens like Legionella. Learn why POU is the best option for your WMP.

CDC Guide - Developing a WMP to reduce Legionella

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Why POU should be a part of every WMP

Point of Use Filters (POU) are frequently a missed portion of Water Safety Management Plans (WSMP) and need to be part of the Contingency Response Plan. Because of the nature of water systems in health care settings, exposure to the water can place patients/residents at risk of infection from waterborne pathogens or at risk of exposure to an outbreak. Moreover, many people being treated at health care facilities, including long-term care facilities and hospitals, have conditions that put them at greater risk of getting sick and dying from these pathogens.

An Immediate Solution

POU filters are the one solution that can be immediately installed to provide a barrier of defense against waterborne pathogens before patients could be exposed Legionella, Pseudomonas, Non-tuberculosis mycobacterium (NTM) and other life-threatening bacteria. Having a supply of POU filters on hand should be part of Contingency Response Plan if or when the water tests positive for high levels of Legionella, Pseudomonas, or other pathogens. The Department of Veterans Affairs, VHA Directive 1061 states “Point-of-use filters may be installed at specific outlets to prevent Legionella exposure to patients. This method may be of particular use in areas that treat high-risk patients.” POU filters can also be used in preventing the passage of Legionella bacteria, other specific microorganisms, and particulate contaminants present in water for ice machines, and drinking fountains.

Even facilities with a secondary chemical water treatment system should consider POU filters as a proactive approach for protection in areas where the most vulnerable patients are housed in a facility. Chemical solutions are a common method in limiting pathogens from both cooling towers and plumbing systems and are designed to kill pathogens and penetrate biofilms. Despite this treatment, biofilms often remain persistent within plumbing systems allowing pathogens to live and reproduce even after repeated treatments. Furthermore, chemical disinfectants may not reach dead legs or low water flow areas making them less effective at distant points in the plumbing system. Secondary chemical water treatments also require water restrictions that disrupt normal operations.

Proactive Planning

AquaMedix believes Point of Use filters should be a part of every facility’s Water Safety Management Plan; as a prevention element for patients with immunocompromised systems in the areas where they are housed. if planning proactively, an adequate supply of POU filters should be on hand for contingency actions should Legionella bacteria or water borne pathogens be detected above acceptable levels in a facilitys’ potable water system.

About AquaMedix:

AquaMedix produces and markets point of use (POU) and inline filters to remove Legionella, Pseudomonas, and waterborne pathogens from potable water systems. Our filters:

> Are tested to ASTM Standard for 99.99999% (>log7) reduction of bacteria in water

> Have a maximum filter membrane life of 90 days for POU filters and up to 6 month for inline filters

> Have standard NPT plumbing connections with ready to install or built in pre-filtration solutions if needed

> Are designed to look like conventional faucets and shower heads

OUR PRODUCTS

Hospital & Medical Center

From patient rooms to surgical scrub rooms to neonatal care units, clean and safe water is essential in any healthcare setting. To provide the highest quality care, healthcare facilities need to have confidence in the safety of the water supply especially for immunocompromised and at-risk individuals.

AquaMedix POU and in-line filters provide risk mitigation from waterborne pathogen exposure for healthcare providers and at-risk patients.

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Commercial & Public Buildings

Office buildings, restaurants, and other public facilities use water in various ways on a daily basis. Biofilms harboring pathogenic bacteria can develop in drinking fountains, ice machines, coffee stations and soft drink stations leading to potential exposure to dangerous pathogens.

AquaMedix POU and inline filters can be fitted to water systems, ice machines, or soft drink stations to provide a barrier of protection for customers and employees.

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Spas & Health Clubs

Spas and Health Clubs are meant for relaxation, rejuvenation and to improve overall health. Water plays a key role in health therapies. Bacterial pathogens present in spa systems can work against these goals. It is crucial to ensure the risk of exposure to waterborne pathogens is reduced for the safety of guests and staff.

AquaMedix POU and in-line filters provide risk mitigation from waterborne pathogen exposure for individuals that frequent spas and health clubs.

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Senior Living & Senior Care

Water in assisted living facilities is used on a daily basis for hygiene as well as consumption. Water quality is of vital importance for seniors, especially those with weakened immune systems where exposure to contaminated water can lead to severe illness or death.

AquaMedix faucet filters, shower filters and ice machine filtration systems offer protection while allowing residents to continue living uninterrupted should dangerous levels of waterborne pathogens be detected in a plumbing system.

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Manufacture & Distribution

Many products require water for manufacturing processes. Within a manufacturing facility, water may be used for production, sanitation, or as a raw material in the product itself. It is essential that businesses have clean water in order to produce goods. Water management is crucial in manufacturing, regardless of the industry.

Manufacturing and distribution facilities that have a need for water security can benefit from taking a proactive approach by installing AquaMedix POU and inline filtration systems.

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Dental Offices

Dental Facilities frequently use water during patient procedures and exams. Pressurized water emits aerosols that can expose patients and staff to harmful bacterial like Legionella putting both patients and personnel at risk.

Offices with POU and inline filter systems provides protection to those who may be exposed to pathogenic bacteria present in water.

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State & Federal Institutions

State and Federal Institutions have large populations where water is used daily for hygiene as well as consumption. Many facilities have outdated plumbing systems which increases the risk of exposure to waterborne pathogens. This is especially true for those with weakened immune systems where exposure to contaminated water can lead to severe illness or death.

AquaMedix faucet filters, shower filters and ice machine filtration systems offer protection and can be easily installed in large institutions creating a barrier of protection against waterborne pathogens.

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Universities & Schools

Safe potable water is important for schools, universities, and colleges for both hygiene and consumption. Many universities and education facilities have aging plumbing infrastructure which increases the risk of exposure to waterborne pathogens. Although healthy kids and young adults are at a lower risk of infection, educational institutions should still take thorough steps to safeguard their water.

AquaMedix POU and inline infection control solutions can be easily installed in large institutions to protect students and faculty from waterborne pathogens.

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Hospitality & Entertainment Venues

Hotels, arenas, convention centers and other public venues use water to serve the needs of their clientele. Biofilms can develop in drinking fountains, ice machines, coffee stations and soft drink stations leading to potential exposure of dangerous pathogens. Ensuring client and staff safety should be the top priority of any hospitality and entertainment service.

AquaMedix POU and inline filters can be fitted to water systems, ice machines, or soft drink stations to provide a barrier of protection for customers and employees.

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INNOVATIVE

Is Point-Of-Use filtration part of your water management plan?

Water Filtration Prevents the Spread of Disease

Who We Serve

Our Products

Point-of-Use

Showers

Faucets

Ice Machines

Replacement Filters

Inline / Ice Machines

Ice Machines

Dental Equipment

Drinking Fountains

Replacement Filters

Why AquaMedix?

Waterborne Pathogen Health Risks & Solutions

Problems in Water

Biofilms and Bacteria

Challenges in Healthcare and Beyond

Point-of-Use Solutions

AQM Commitment

Is Point-of-Use filtration included in your water management plan?

Point of use filtration offers immediate and long-term protection from waterborne pathogens like Legionella. Learn why POU is the best option for your WMP.

Why POU should be a part of every WMP

An Immediate Solution

Proactive Planning

INNOVATIVE

Is Point-Of-Use filtration part of your water management plan?

Water Filtration Prevents the Spread of Disease

Who We Serve

Point-of-Use

Inline / Ice Machines

Why AquaMedix?

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