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The Berks County South Campus in Mohnton, Pennsylvania, was evacuated on Tuesday (June 10) after tests revealed the presence of legionella bacteria in the water system. Legionella can cause Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia that can be fatal in about 10% of cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In response to the discovery, county officials took precautionary measures by dismissing employees for the day. The Facilities Department has arranged for portable bathrooms and a supply of potable drinking water to ensure the campus can still be occupied safely. Access to the building's water and bathrooms is currently restricted.
The campus is set to undergo chlorination over the weekend to eliminate the bacteria. This closure affects several departments and agencies, including planning, assessment, mapping, community and economic development, archives, the workforce development board, and others. Despite the disruption, county officials emphasize that the campus remains safe to occupy as long as the alternative water and bathroom measures are in place.