It is no longer only in the Subcarpathian Voivodeship that we are dealing with the occurrence of legionellosis due to infection with the Legionella bacterium. In recent days, the infection has also been confirmed in patients from the Lubelskie and Malopolskie provinces.
Legionella in more regions. Infections have been confirmed in the Malopolska and Lublin regions.
Published Aug. 28, 2023 08:30
fot. iStock
Most of the sick people live in Rzeszow and Rzeszow County. A total of 144 people have been confirmed infected so far, eight of whom have died. The proliferation of the bacterial bacilli in indoor water systems is favored by the high temperatures that have persisted in recent days. Legionella bacteria are found in water and multiply at temperatures of 20-50 degrees Celsius.
Legionellosis is a respiratory disease. It is an infectious disease, but not contagious - it is not transmitted from person to person. It poses a threat to humans only when it enters the respiratory tract.
"Infection can occur through inhalation of air in which there is an aerosol of water contaminated with bacteria (water mist created by splashing water). Legionella is not transmitted through the food route, i.e. it is not dangerous to us when it enters the digestive system with the water we drink," reads the website of the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate.
Most cases of legionellosis can be cured with antibiotics. The severe course of the disease most often affects the elderly, the immunocompromised and those with chronic lung disease, as well as smokers.
To reduce the risk of infection, shower equipment in the home should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. If the tap has not been used for the past two weeks, you should turn off the tap for at least two minutes before using the water. If possible - keep the temperature in heating devices at least 60 degrees.
The Chief Sanitary Inspector has instructed all State Sanitary Inspection units in the country to strengthen supervision of compliance with water health safety rules by managers of water supply and water installations. This includes facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes.
