Legionellosis Outbreak in Italy (Parma)
15 Nov 2016
The Emilia-Romagna Department of Health
in Italy has confirmed that the source of the outbreak of Legionnaires’ in the Montebello district of Parma was three infected water storage units in the municipal water supply.
The Mayor Federico Pizzarotti has advised the end of the emergency phase of the investigations into the outbreak, analysis is ongoing.
Advice for Travellers
All travellers are potentially at risk of infection, the risk is increased in travellers with underlying medical conditions. Travelers staying in poorly maintained hotel/apartment accommodation may be at higher risk. Flushing through showers in hotels or institutions with hot water when they have not been used recently may help.
Travellers to outbreak areas should be advised to seek prompt medical advice if they develop an influenza-like illness with fever, cough or shortness of breath during their stay or up to two weeks after return home.