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Businesses have been told to flush out the water supply in their buildings before they reopen, in order to prevent spreading the potentially deadly Legionella bacteria.

Public Health England (PHE) guidance says there should be "regular flushing" of the water system at the likes of dental practices, hairdressers, gyms and hotels, as well as office buildings, to stop bacterial growth.

Premises are also required to undertake a detailed review of all aspects of their water management system before reopening amid the continuing coronavirus lockdown.

Legionella is naturally present in water systems and causes Legionnaires' disease.

Fatal in 10% of cases, it can lead to serious illnesses in people aged over 50, smokers and those with underlying health conditions.

When the temperature of water is between 25C and 50C, the bacteria multiply.

Poor or no flow into the system can also have that effect.

Because many hot and cold water systems will not be running during the lockdown, the chances of the bacteria forming will increase if no action is taken, particularly given summer is approaching.

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The PHE guidance says: "Regular flushing out of the premises' water system throughout the shutdown period is required.

"However all aspects of the water management system need to be reviewed before reopening the business, and necessary action will be dependent on the complexities of the system.

"This may be done by a combination of workers employed by the organisation if they have the necessary skills and knowledge.

"However, if a water system requires disinfection then a water consultant will be needed."

People who think they may have Legionnaires' disease are advised to visit nhs.uk/conditions/legionnaires-disease/ or to call 111