Reduction of Legionella pneumophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria in water using gamma irradiation

Pathogenic bacteria found in low levels in natural water systems can present a hazard to human health, such as through contraction of Legionnaires disease, if conditions are favourable for growth and there is potential to create an aerosol. In this study, gamma radiation using a(60)Co source was applied to Legionella pneumophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria for 60 min at varying dose rates. All L. pneumophila bacteria were eliminated by irradiation at a dose of 1.86 kGy, and all P. aeruginosa at a dose of 0.70 kGy. Approximate D-10 values for L. pneumophila and P. aeruginosa bacteria were 166.3 Gy and 70.9 Gy respectively.

Automated summary

Pathogenic bacteria, even at low levels in natural water systems, can be a threat to human health if conditions are favorable for growth and aerosol creation. This study demonstrates that γ radiation can effectively eliminate Legionella pneumophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The approximate D-10 values for these bacteria are 166.3 Gy and 70.9 Gy, respectively.