Three Dayton Public School buildings test positive for legionella

DAYTON — Three Dayton Public School buildings have tested positive for legionella in their water systems.

The district tested for legionella after several other area school districts tested positive for the bacteria, according to a news release. Eleven buildings were tested.

Kettering City Schools, Vandalia Butler City Schools, Milton-Union Schools and Northmont City Schools have found the germ in the water supplies in their buildings.

>> Legionella bacteria found in Milton-Union Schools water samples

>> Districts testing for Legionella after 3 area schools discover bacteria in water systems

Eleven buildings were tested, and three — Eastmont Elementary School, Louis Troy Elementary, and Ludlow II, the new central office building — were positive for legionella.

Legionella bacteria causes a dangerous, and sometimes deadly, form of pneumonia known as Legionnaires’ disease.

The district said in the release that it prioritizes the safety and health of all students and will be taking action based on the guidance of the Environmental Protection Agency.

>>University of Dayton student killed in a bicycle accident in Trotwood Saturday

The affected buildings will be flushed and chlorinated, all water fountains will be temporarily turned off and bottled water will be provided to all staff and students at these buildings, according to the district’s release. Another test will be done again in these buildings in a few weeks per EPA recommendations.

The district also said that all remaining district buildings are in the process of being tested. The district working with Montgomery County Department of Health to determine the best course of action going forward, they said.

Currently, all Dayton Public School Students are learning remotely for the first nine weeks of class.

Cox Media Group