Legionella bacteria found at sports centre

Low counts of the bacteria were found in routine water samples taken from showers at the Les Quennevais Sports Centre

Showers at a Jersey sports centre remain closed after legionella bacteria was found in part of the water system.

Low counts of the bacteria were found in routine water samples taken from the showers at the Les Quennevais Sports Centre in St Brelade following a recent refurbishment, the Government of Jersey said.

Legionella is a type of bacteria that causes Legionnaires' disease, a potentially serious lung infection.

Officials stressed the bacteria found was not legionella pneumophila, the main cause of the illness.

Minister for Infrastructure Andy Jehan said all showers in the building were expected to be closed for three weeks while they were disinfected.

The government said there was no risk to the sinks or water fountains in the building.

About 25 species of legionella can cause the disease, according to Legionella Control International.

However, Jersey officials said 90% of cases are caused by legionella pneumophila.