Asylum Seekers Removed from UK Barge Over Legionella Bacteria Concerns
- asylum seekers evacuated from barge in southern England as precaution after discovery of Legionella bacteria in water system.
- No individuals showed symptoms but officials acted out of caution to potential Legionnaires' disease threat.
- Barge called Bibby Stockholm was intended by UK government to house up to 500 asylum seekers as cost-saving measure.
- Use of barge to shelter asylum seekers had sparked controversy over safety and suitability of cramped living conditions.
- Legionella bacteria does not spread person-to-person but is contracted by inhaling contaminated water droplets.