M. chimaera – The challenges for infection prevention and control

•The response to the international outbreak of Mycobacterium chimaera.•The challenges and complexities when a piece of medical equipment such as a heather cooler unit is implicated.•Engineering environmental response.•Water sampling, routine maintenance and cleaning for water baths including heater cooler units.•Freedom of information and patient notification.•Poses the question of ‘How long is enhanced surveillance required’.