Holidaymakers returning home after a prolonged absence must flush their household water taps before using them to prevent potential bacterial contamination, according to medical advice issued on French television.
Speaking on the French morning television show "Bonjour ! La Matinale TF1", Dr Vincent Valinducq warned that stagnant water inside domestic plumbing creates an ideal environment for Legionella bacteria to multiply while properties sit empty.
The morning broadcast on TF1, France's leading private national network, regularly features health experts offering practical wellness and home hygiene guidance for viewers across the country.
If the bacteria spread, stagnant pipe water can become contaminated and cause legionellosis, a serious lung infection. Dr Valinducq explained that using sinks or showers creates fine airborne droplets, or aerosols. Inhaling these microscopic droplets can transmit the infection, which can affect anyone but presents the greatest danger to vulnerable or immunocompromised individuals.
Legionellosis, commonly known in severe cases as Legionnaires' disease, is a lung disease caused by Legionella species. The bacteria thrive in warm, standing water systems and are transmitted exclusively through mist inhalation rather than person-to-person contact.
To eliminate stagnant water safely, Dr Valinducq advised running both cold and hot water taps for several minutes immediately upon returning home. He stressed that this flushing process must be performed with windows open throughout the property to prevent airborne aerosols from lingering in the room.
Preventing water contamination
Longer-term maintenance is also essential to keep water delivery systems clean. Dr Valinducq recommended regularly cleaning showerheads and piping to eradicate potential bacterial harborage, noting that white vinegar serves as an effective natural descaling solution.
Homeowners should also arrange for a qualified professional to inspect their boiler system. Professional checks ensure heating equipment maintains correct water storage temperatures, as maintaining hot water tanks at high temperatures is a standard measure to kill harmful pathogens.
Opening windows is one of the very first actions returning travelers should take. Ventilating rooms immediately replaces stale indoor air accumulated over days or weeks with fresh outdoor air.
Checking refrigerator safety
Beyond water systems and ventilation, returning householders must inspect all food stored in the refrigerator. Dr Valinducq advised checking expiration dates, as well as testing items by sight and smell. He warned that any food containers or plastic wrappings that have become swollen or bloated must be discarded immediately without exception.
Swollen packaging typically indicates bacterial growth, as microorganisms produce metabolic gases inside sealed containers as food decays, creating a hazard for foodborne illness.
If mold has formed inside the refrigerator during an absence, Dr Valinducq outlined a precise cleaning routine. The interior should be washed with warm soapy water or wiped down using a sponge dampened with diluted bleach water. All internal walls and shelving must then be thoroughly rinsed before restocking.
