Can You Get Legionella from Drinking Water?

Ever wondered if your water was just throwing you off? The idea sounds interesting, but it’s a question for asking when it comes to Legionella bacteria. Legionnaires’ disease is a major lung infection linked to water systems. But you can’t really get it at a glass of water? We’ll quickly shed light and talk about the facts, and we’ll discuss important water concerns such as basement floods, burst pipes, and insurance.

Can You Get Legionnaires Disease from Drinking Water?

No, drinking water isn’t something to treat Legionnaires’ disease.

The illness has been contracted when inhaling water droplets from Legionella pneumophila, not swallowing it. To this end, showers, hot tubs and humidifiers are more likely to spread bacteria than your kitchen faucet or water glass.

Bacteria may spread in moist, stagnant areas if water systems don’t be maintained properly. If a tiny droplet is released into the air and lungs, there may be infection, too.

If you do. Have more than 50 years of age. Have smoked or have smoke Poorly-trained immune system Have chronic lung disease

While it is natural to drink contaminated water via your stomach, aspiration can also cause it to enter your lungs. These may be the case for people with swallowing difficulties, especially at hospitals or nursing homes.

My main takeaway: Drinking isn’t healthy if you’re breathing in contaminated water mist.

Can You Get Legionnaires from Drinking Water?

Let’s take this another way. Though Legionella bacteria can exist in drinking water systems, infection requires inhalation or aspiration. But unless you’re inhaling droplets while drinking, it’s not much of a risk.

Here’s where the bacteria love to hide:

• Hickory tanks and heaters.
• Showerheads and faucets.
• These buildings include large buildings with air-conditioning systems.
• Decorative fountain and spas

The fact is that contaminated drinking water is practically impossible to get sick from, but it is really very rare. Maintenance like flushing pipes and keeping water heaters hot enough can prevent Legionella from beginning to develop.

Tip: Heat the water outside at 150°F (49°C) or higher, then clean the showerhead every few months to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Does Insurance Cover Water in Basement?

Now, switch gears – let’s talk about something everyone has to deal with: a wet basement.

The water pool. The first thought? “Does my insurance cover this?” That depends on where it landed.

Here is an outline.

• Are burst pipes or appliance leaks? This will usually be covered.
• Was the rainwater or the flooding coming from the outside? Not covered by current policies.
• Sewer backup or sump pump failure? Some, but only if you’ve added more protection to your policy.

Insurance companies usually cover a sudden and accidental damage, preventing or compensating for irresponsible accidents. You’re sure you’re safe if that basement water came from a burst pipe yesterday night. But if it’s been seeing through the foundation for weeks, you may be alone.

Tip: Take note of the term “water backup” — it adds thousands of dollars a year.

Will Insurance Cover Water in Basement?

If you just have water down the toilet, you need quick answers. But most insurance companies say so.

• covered (usually)
• Burst or frozen pipes
• Quickly-spent appliance breakdowns.
• Water heater leaks
• Not covered usually
• Poor drainage or foundation seepage
• Groundwater flooding
• Neglected maintenance
• To increase your chances of coverage.
• Activate immediately: Turn off the water and electricity.
• Document everything, take photos and videos.
• Call your insurer to report immediately: the quicker you report, the better.

Protect mold: Call a professional restoration service.

Remember, flood insurance is not an additional policy, but one typically available through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.

Pro tip: Some home insurers offer “flood endorsements” that can be added to existing policies – it’s worth asking.

Who Do I Call If a Water Pipe Burst?

The minute a pipe bursts, you’re all in for the second. Here’s your step-by-step emergency action plan:

• Shut off the main water supply
• So avoid floods right away.
• Cut the power
• Water and electricity aren’t interchangeable – keep safe!
• Call a plumber
• A plumber can repair the burst and prevent further damage.
• Contact your insurance company
• The claim must be filed right away. Many insurers can call in certified contractors for help.
• Hire a water damage restoration service
• They’ll remove water, dry it out and stop mold from spreading.
• Document the damage
• Take pictures of everything, including repairs, cleanup, and plumber visits.

If you rent, inform your landlord immediately. Renters insurance will cover personal items that may be damaged by water, but not building structures itself.

In winter, keep the temperature up above 55°F (13°C) and open cabinet doors outside pipes to avoid freezing.

Final Thoughts

So, how can you get Legionella from drinking water? Most times – you cannot. Real risk is of inhaling contaminated water droplets rather than swallowing them. But you must still keep up with your water systems – clean your plumbing, service your hot water tanks and maintain your maintenance.

And the insurance isn’t going to help if you are in a home water disaster such as a burst pipe or a basement flooding, even if you know what to cover. Read carefully, document damage is evident, and it is not necessary to call professional help if necessary.

It is sometimes good to know that water can be the life-saving drug, but it can be destructive in a blink of an eye. Stay on top of things, stay informed and keep your home and health safe. Read more

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