BACTERIA which can lead to Legionnaire's disease has been found in the water at a South Tyneside police station.
The discovery was made during a routine test of the water systems at the Marine Police Unit in Jarrow.
The unit provides specialist officers trained in dealing with incidents involving searches of waterways and confined spaces, including drains an
d culverts.
The building was one of five found to be contaminated by small amounts of the bug, which can cause pneumonia, within the shower facilities.
Other stations involved are in Westgate Road, Newcastle, Gillbridge Avenue, Sunderland, High Street West, Gateshead, and Bridge Street, Blyth.
Assistant Chief Constable Keith Mavin said: "Northumbria Police is currently carrying out a pre-planned programme of testing the water systems in its buildings for the presence of Legionella bacteria.
"Samples obtained from the staff shower facilities at the stations show small amounts of bacteria. We have,
therefore, isolated the showers for full sterilisation to take place.
At the end of the sterilisation process, the facilities will be tested again and will only re-open if they are found to be clear of the bacteria."
"We have been advised by our occupational health unit that exposure to the bacteria does not necessarily lead to Legionnaire's disease being contracted. The risk in this case is considered low."
The force has now advised staff and officers at the stations affected of the symptoms of Legionnaire's disease and the need to seek early medical treatment.
Mr Mavin added: "We do not consider that any member of the public visiting these police stations has been exposed to the bacteria. All our police stations remain open and fully operational."
Legionnaire's disease is not contagious and is spread throughout the air from a water source.
It can be treated with antibiotics.
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