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A council has hit back after a scare was sparked by a school warning of Legionnaire's Disease at a public pool.
Parents at Elaine Academy in Strood were sent a letter yesterday suggesting that children would not be using Strood Leisure Centre for lessons.
But a Medway Council spokesman said they do not have and have never had Legionnaire’s Disease at the leisure centre.
A spokesman said: “Last week, during routing testing we found Legionella bacteria in two of our water systems that service the toilets and showers at the centre.
"Routine testing is constantly carried out as most water systems contain small amounts of Legionella bacteria.
“The mains water supply and the swimming pool, which are filled by water from the mains, are not affected.
"We closed the affected water systems at the centre last Tuesday night immediately while the bacteria was isolated and professional advice was sought.
"The toilets were then chlorinated, renewed pipes were put in place on the water system and filters fixed between it and all showers. The centre was reopened on the Wednesday.
“While we are still awaiting further testing, early results show that the bacteria found in the water systems in Strood are not the type that cause Legionella’s Disease" - Medway council spokesman
“The dry and wet side toilets have been reopened following advice that it is safe to do so, as are the dry side showers.
"The pool, or wetside, showers are awaiting results from further testing this morning and we expect to open these soon.
“It is important to note that Legionnaire’s Disease is contracted if a person breathes in water droplets or drinks water containing certain Legionella bacteria.
“While we are still awaiting further testing, early results show that the bacteria found in the water systems in Strood are not the type that cause Legionella’s Disease."
A letter sent to Elaine Avenue parents yesterday said: "Medway council have advised us that the pupils should not be using the pool at the moment and so swimming will be postponed until further notice."
But Medway Council said this is inaccurate and said they would be contacting the school today.
Legionnaires' Disease can cause a potentially serious lung infection with symptoms including high fever, muscle pain and chills.
Other signs are a persistent cough, chest pains a breathing difficulties.
