Legionnaire's Disease - Italy (Update 1)

28 Jul 2017

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reported 4 clusters of Legionnaire's disease in Italy from 6 March to 25 July 2017.

Three hotels on the island of Ischia have now been affected. Most recently, Hotel Carlo Magno (4 cases) on 18 June 2017. Hotel Don Pepe (5 cases) and Hotel Punta del Sole (8 cases) have also been affected.

Cases have also been seen previously in Siracusa (Sicily) at Hotel Algila Ortigia Charme (3 cases).

Advice to 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.

• fitfortravel Respiratory Infections