Beau Sejour closed after legionella detected

Tuesday, 15 September 2026 15:42

By Harry Booth

Beau Sejour has been closed after legionella bacteria was detected in the water system.

You can get Legionnaires' Disease if you breathe in tiny droplets of water containing bacteria that cause the infection.

The States of Guernsey said the bacteria was found through routine testing, which is carried out regularly, with preliminary results received yesterday (14 September).

At that point, the showers were shut immediately.

"Further investigations have led to the decision to shut the Centre, while more extensive investigations are underway to identify the cause and carrying out further testing.

"The Centre will not reopen until it is confirmed safe, and teams are working hard to find solutions to mitigate the impact this might have on upcoming events.

"It is hoped the Centre will reopen in time for the weekend."

Public Health has confirmed that they do not currently know of any cases of Legionnaire's Disease in the community.

The bacteria cannot be passed from person to person, and the risk of illness remains low, with most people exposed to it not becoming unwell.

Symptoms usually develop between two and 14 days after exposure, and include:

A high temperature or fever
A cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Chest pain or discomfort
Muscle aches
Headache
Confusion, tiredness, or flu-like symptoms

Anyone who has used the showers in the last two weeks and develops symptoms is being urged to get medical advice, and mention that they may have been exposed to Legionella.