Legionella-related deaths continue to hit the headlines around the world, with recent cases linked variously to shower heads, hot tubs and cooling waters.

With water monitoring playing an important role in controlling legionella, Lab M's BCYE (buffered charcoal yeast extract) Legionella Isolation Medium is finding increasing application. It is used particularly for water samples concentrated by membrane filtration or centrifugation.

The medium is based on the charcoal yeast extract formulation of Feeley et al, with the addition of ACES (N-2-acetamido-2-aminoethane-sulphonic acid) buffer and a-ketoglutarate for enhanced performance.

It is detailed in internationally recognised methodology for the isolation of Legionella species from water samples. A range of selective supplements, used in conjunction with heat and acid treatments, aid isolation from water heavily contaminated with other bacteria.