Humidifier fever on a Type 42 destroyer

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Epidemiology
• Naval medicine

Background:

• A cluster of respiratory symptoms was reported by sailors aboard HMS SHEFFIELD in 1981.
• The symptoms were widespread among messmates, prompting an investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cause of widespread symptoms among a naval crew.
• To identify the etiological agent responsible for the outbreak.

Main Methods:

• Epidemiological investigation on board a Type 42 destroyer.
• Clinical assessment of affected individuals.

Main Results:

• The investigation concluded that all affected sailors in one mess deck had humidifier fever.
• Humidifier fever was identified as the cause of the outbreak.

Conclusions:

• Humidifier fever can affect personnel in confined environments like naval ships.
• Preventive measures, such as continuous air conditioning operation during maintenance, are crucial.
• Implementing simple advice to maintain air conditioning prevented recurrence on other vessels.