Detection of Legionella spp. by a nested‑PCR assay in air samples of a wastewater treatment plant and downwind distances in Isfahan

Wastewater contains a variety of pathogens and bio ‑aerosols generated during the wastewater treatment process, which could be a potential health risk for exposed individuals. This study was carried out to detect Legionella spp. in the bio ‑aerosols generated from different processes of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Isfahan, Iran, and the downwind distances.

A total of 54 air samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of Legionella spp. by a nested‑ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. A liquid impingement biosampler was used to capture bio ‑aerosols. The weather conditions were also recorded.

Legionella were detected in 6% of the samples, including air samples above the aeration tank (1/9), belt filter press (1/9), and 250 m downwind (1/9).

The result of this study revealed the presence of Legionella spp. in air samples of a WWTP and downwind distance, which consequently represent a potential health risk to the exposed individuals.