[Sanitation measures in evidence of Legionella]

Appearance of Legionella disease generally is underrated. Conclusions as to disease frequency from Legionella antibody investigations are not reliable. The number of microbes necessary to produce illness depends from individual preliminary conditions. In special areas of the hospital the rate of diseases caused by Legionella can be reduced by protection. In bathing areas generally the hitherto existing regulations of the Federal Health Authority are sufficient: Continual warm water temperature increases from 60 degrees C, chlorination if necessary, regular stepwise controls. Insufficient results are produced by intermittent temperature increases. Filters that are impermeable for microbes appear uneconomical for bathing areas.