Impact of copper and silver ionization on fungal colonization of the water supply in health care centers: Implications for immunocompromised patients

Abstract

Copper and silver ionization is a well-recognized disinfection method to control Legionella species in water distribution systems in hospitals. These systems may also serve as a potential indoor reservoir for fungi. The prevalence of fungi was significantly lower in ionized than in nonionized water samples from health care facilities. The clinical consequences of this finding require further investigation. © 2007 by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved.