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Legionella Expert Calls for Greater Vigilance
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07/03/2008
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Kevin Woolnough, a Legionella specialist at analytical services company Eurofins, has seen a growing number of samples being tested positive for Legionella bacteria and is leading calls for measures to halt the rise in outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease.
Woolnough believes that whilst most people have heard of Legionnaires’ disease, few know the measures that would reduce the likelihood of outbreaks.
Last year in England and Wales, there were approximately 540 Legionnaires’ disease cases with a mortality rate of 8%. In the more susceptible groups this rate is thought to be in excess of 30%. Most cases were in males over 40 years old. Some 60% of cases are regarded as community acquired, as opposed to hospital acquired (approx 1%), and travel associated (30% abroad, 10% UK).
(Source: National Surveillance Scheme for Legionnaires' Disease)
In Britain, Legionnaires’ disease has been most commonly associated with hot and cold water systems in large buildings. Infections are usually sporadic as opposed to outbreaks with large numbers of people affected. Historically outbreaks have been associated with wet evaporative condensers (cooling towers), but increased controls have reduced incidences.
Woolnough has provided a detailed article on this subject, available here for download.
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Author
Chris Rowlands
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