Legionnaires’ Disease Cases on the Rise in Italy
Reports of Legionnaires’ disease, also known as legionellosis, have been on the rise in Italy, with a total of 3111 cases reported to the Istituto Superiore di Sanità in 2022. This marked a 14% increase compared to the previous year and brought the number of cases back to pre-pandemic levels after two years.
Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection caused by the Legionella pneumophila bacterium. While in most cases, the inhalation of this bacterium does not cause major symptoms, in vulnerable individuals or those with specific risk factors, it can lead to severe pneumonia. The disease is generally contracted through the respiratory route by inhaling or aspirating aerosol containing legionella.
The Legionella genus was named in 1976 after an epidemic spread among attendees at an American Legion rally at the Bellevue Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia. The source of bacterial contamination was later identified in the hotel’s air conditioning system. Legionella bacteria thrive in hot water environments, making showers and air conditioning systems with water from aqueducts high-risk areas for contagion.
Professor Fabrizio Pregliasco, a virologist, emphasizes the importance of preventive measures in public places such as hospitals, nursing homes, and hotels where legislation is in place to prevent such outbreaks. However, the situation is different for private homes where regular checks are not mandated. Good maintenance and cleaning of systems, including air conditioning, are crucial in prevention.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease can include high fever, severe pain, and respiratory failure, and in severe cases, it can lead to organ impairment, sepsis, and thrombosis. The disease primarily affects the elderly, individuals with lung diseases, or those with weakened immune systems.
To reduce the risk of legionellosis, experts recommend running hot water before entering the shower to avoid inhaling potentially harmful vapors. By raising awareness and taking preventive measures, the spread of Legionnaires’ disease can be minimized in both public and private spaces.