ECDC warns of Legionnaire's disease in Europe

Posted on 06 Month 07 2023

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On July 3, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warned European countries to be vigilant in detecting and monitoring outbreaks of Legionnaires' disease, a form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. severe outbreaks in the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA).

In its latest annual epidemiological report, the ECDC said that in 2021, more than 10,700 cases of Legionnaires have been recorded, including 704 deaths. With an average of 2.4 cases per 100,000 population, this is the highest annual incidence of Legionnaires' disease in Europe. Italy, France, Spain and Germany accounted for 75% of the recorded cases. Men aged 65 and over are the most affected group, with a rate of 8.9 cases per 100,000 people.

According to the report, it is not clear why the rate of this infection has increased recently in Europe. However, changes in testing policies and surveillance systems, as well as an aging population, could be factors.

Changes in water system design and infrastructure, as well as changes in climate and weather, can impact Legionella's natural environment, and exposure to droplets containing this bacterium can also affect the environment. may contribute to an increase in the epidemic.
Legionella bacteria are found naturally in freshwater sources such as lakes, rivers, streams... Accordingly, hot water tanks, hot tubs, public fountains, water heating systems, and cooling towers can infected with this bacteria. Legionella bacteria are usually spread through inhalation of droplets, vapors, or aerosols containing the bacteria. Legionnaire's incubation period is 2 to 10 days (up to 16 days as noted in some cases).

Water temperature between 25-42 degrees Celsius and stagnant water are favorable conditions for Legionella bacteria to multiply. Because of the relatively high mortality rates and challenges in identifying and controlling environmental pathogens, it is important that public health authorities remain vigilant to detect foci of disease. translation through surveillance”.

* SOURCE: https://baotintuc.vn/dich-benh/ecdc-canh-bao-ve-dich-benh-legionnaire-tai-chau-au-20230704100937196.htm

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