Guidance for Legionella Control

For Public Health

Key points

  • CDC provides guidance on reducing the risk for Legionella growth and spread in water systems.
  • The first resource below provides general guidance for routine water quality monitoring.
  • The other resources address special circumstances after a period of reduced water use to ensure safe resumption of normal operations.
Collection of five icons representing volume, temperature, swabs, and other aspects of Legionella control

Guidance resources

Monitoring building water

This guidance relates to specific building water parameters (temperature and disinfectants) to reduce the risk for Legionella growth and spread.

Displaying hot tubs at temporary events

This guidance addresses minimizing risk for Legionella exposure from hot tub displays at fairs, home and garden shows, and conventions.

Resuming cruise operations

This guidance addresses special considerations prior to and during the resumption of cruise operations after a no-sail period or reduced operation.

Reopening buildings

This guidance addresses special considerations prior to and as buildings reopen after a prolonged shutdown or reduced operation.

Content Source
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases; National Center for Environmental Health
About This Page
Published: May 15, 2024
Updated: March 26, 2026

This page was last updated on this date. Updates may include minor edits, image changes, or other modifications to page content.

Reviewed: February 19, 2026

The information on this page was last reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy.