As the link below points out, experts are unsure as to why there has been such a drastic increase in Legionnaires. Infections by other clinically significant waterborne pathogens that can cause infections include but are not limited to Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Burkholderia, Stenotrophomonas, nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), and Fusarium, have also increased dramatically.
Legionella and these other environmental-source pathogens are collectively called Opportunistic Premise Plumbing Pathogens (OPPPs). To date, attention has focused primarily on Legionnaires’ disease, because it’s the only OPPP infection that legally must be reported, but other OPPP infections are gaining prominence.
Pollution insurance policies offer financial assurance in protecting insureds for OPPPs liability. Pollution insurance policies, besides being more affordable than other forms of financial assurance also cover legal fees, first party clean up, third party property damage, third party bodily injury, third party business income, engineering fees, disposal costs, specialists to assist you in handling a claim and much more.
Businesses with exposure to OPPPs need to have an environmental financial assurance plan in place. Keep in mind there are many other contaminants that are gaining notoriety, i.e. PFAS, PFOS, Glysophate, Formaldehyde, Silica, Welding Rod Fumes….