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Departures with Tallink Silja’s ferry Silja Serenade have been cancelled, the shipping company announces. The reason is that the ferry is being cleaned after legionella bacteria that exceed the limit values have been detected.
The higher bacteria levels were discovered during a routine measurement, reports Hufvudstadsbladet. Silja Serenade operates the Stockholm-Helsinfors route.
The canceled departures apply on 12–13 November. A “chlorine shock treatment” of the water system will be done to eliminate the bacteria, the shipping company writes on its website.
Cabins with the higher limit values have been shut down and the temperature of the hot water has also been raised.
No passengers have fallen ill so far, according to the shipping company. However, passengers who traveled with Silja Serenade are advised to be alert and contact a doctor in the event of any legionella symptoms.
Legionella is spread via inhalation of small water particles in the air. The symptoms include a dry cough, fever, headache, muscle pain and shortness of breath.
“Customers whose trips are affected by the cancellations will be contacted and offered alternative solutions,” writes Tallink Silja.
On Tuesday, November 14, the ferry is expected to operate the route as usual.