In the wake of the surge in pneumonia cases in Lombardy, testing of cooling towers from buildings in the three municipalities with most cases - Montichiari, Carpenedolo and Calvisano – identified the presence of Legionellabacteria. People with pneumonia infections continue to arrive in hospitals in Brescia and Mantua, but new cases are declining in number. More buildings in the region are to undergo testing over the next few months. Read more. The ECDC reports that many of the cases are elderly, 70 percent are male ‘and report comorbidities including immunosuppression and/or risk factors such as smoking’. Read more
Advice for travellers
Legionnaire’s disease occurs worldwide and outbreaks have been associated with cruise ships, hotels, and resorts. The bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease is found in the airborne droplets of warm, fresh water, such as from fountains, spas, showers and the cooling towers of buildings. Over 50s, current or former smokers, those with a chronic lung condition, and the immunocompromised are at higher risk of developing illness after exposure. Read more
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.