Legionellosis in Poland in 2017

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Legionellosis, encompassing Legionnaires' disease and Pontiac fever, is a significant public health concern.
• Surveillance data is crucial for understanding disease trends and informing public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the epidemiological situation of legionellosis in Poland in 2017.
• To compare 2017 data with previous years to identify trends and changes in incidence.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of national surveillance data from annual bulletins and case reports.
• Inclusion of data from Sanitary and Epidemiological Stations.

Main Results:

• 39 legionellosis cases reported in 2017 (38 Legionnaires' disease, 1 Pontiac fever), a 50% increase from the previous year.
• Incidence rate of 0.102 per 100,000 population, significantly higher than the 2011-2015 median.
• Higher incidence in men, particularly those aged 50-59, with nine reported fatalities and cases linked to healthcare settings and international travel.

Conclusions:

• Legionellosis incidence in Poland, while rising, remains low compared to the EU, but shows concerning provincial variation and high mortality.
• Significant under-diagnosis of legionellosis is suggested by the data.
• Improving early diagnosis of Legionnaires' disease in healthcare settings is a public health priority.