Ghent paper producer Stora Enso is the possible source of the legionella outbreak
The Ghent paper producer Stora Enso has admitted that it is the possible source of the legionella outbreak in East Flanders in which two people have died. The company admitted that it was the possible source in a press statement released on Tuesday afternoon.
The Flemish Care and Health Agency had identified the Langerbrugge paper factory that is part of the Stora Enzo Group as the possible source of the legionella outbreak around the East Flemish municipality of Evergem. Although the investigation into the outbreak is still running Stora Enzo now admits that it is the possible source of the legionella infection.
Stora Enso is a Finnish company and is one of the world’s largest producers of paper and cardboard. The company says that the cooling tower that is suspected to be the source of the legionella outbreak has been taken out of service and won’t be used again until it has been thoroughly cleaned and inspected by the Care and Health Agency.
The company adds that it is offering its full cooperation to the investigation into the cause of the infection.
Stora Enso also expresses its sympathy for those that have been affected and their families. The company concludes its statement by saying that it will offer now further comment so as not to prejudice the investigation.