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[Outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in a private apartment building]

M J Aldea1, M P Moreno, V Gutiérrez

  • 1Seccion de Laboratorio (Microbiología Clínica), Bienestar Social y Trabajo, Zaragoza.

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiologia Clinica
|August 1, 1992
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Legionnaires disease outbreak in an apartment building was investigated. Legionella pneumophila was identified in a patient's shower, linked to potable water issues like low temperature and under-chlorination.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental microbiology
  • Public health epidemiology

Context:

  • An unusual Legionnaires disease outbreak occurred in a private apartment building in Zaragoza, Spain.
  • The investigation was prompted by three pneumonia cases in residents of the same building.

Purpose:

  • To identify the source and causative agent of the Legionnaires disease outbreak.
  • To understand the contributing factors to the outbreak in a residential setting.

Summary:

  • Six cases of Legionnaires disease were detected over nine days, with a 1.54% incidence rate.
  • Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1, specifically the Pontiac subgroup, was identified as the causal agent.
  • The bacteria were found in the shower of one patient's bathroom, implicating the potable water system.

Impact:

  • The probable source was identified as the building's potable water system, with contributing factors including water stagnation, low boiler temperature, and under-chlorination.
  • Recommendations include establishing a specific information system for individualized declaration of Legionnaires disease to improve control.

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