This was sent to all STR rental owners and managers from the Davidson County Health Department
Legionella are bacteria that can cause a serious lung infection called Legionnaires’ disease. Legionella bacteria grow naturally in water and especially in warm water. Hot tubs that are not cleaned and disinfected properly can become contaminated with Legionella. People can get infected with Legionella if they inhale steam or mist from a contaminated hot tub.
To prevent the growth and spread of bacteria like Legionella in your hot tub, perform these activities regularly:
- Check disinfectant and pH levels
- Remove slime or biofilm by scrubbing and cleaning
- Replace the hot tub water filter according to manufacturer’s recommendations
- Replace the hot tub water
The number of people with Legionnaires’ disease in Tennessee and in the United States has increased since 2000. In 2023, over 150 people in Tennessee were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease and 9% used a hot tub during the time they could have become infected.
To learn more about Legionella, visit:
To learn more about care of your hot tub, visit:
Please contact the Tennessee Department of Health with questions or concerns: Legionella.Health@tn.gov
For more information about Legionella in Nashville, contact the Metro Public Health Department at LegionellaControl@nashville.gov