Swab samples are always preferred over water samples for collecting Legionella risk indicators in showers. Is this statement true or false?

The statement is false because water samples are generally considered more reliable than swab samples for detecting Legionella risk indicators, especially in showers. Water samples provide a better representation of the conditions in the plumbing system from which they are drawn, as Legionella primarily exists in the water and biofilms in the plumbing infrastructure.

Swabbing surfaces may not capture the full prevalence of Legionella because it often resides in the water itself rather than solely on surfaces such as showerheads or faucet aerators. While swabs can be useful in some contexts, they might miss the bacteria present in the water that can be aerosolized and subsequently inhaled, leading to potential health risks.

Additionally, the methodology for collecting and analyzing water samples tends to be more standardized and validated across various environments, making it a preferred choice for monitoring and assessing the risk of Legionella in plumbing systems. This approach provides a clearer picture of the risk levels present, guiding more effective management strategies.