The Ministry of Health is on high alert after a case of Legionnaires' disease was detected at a private clinic, while a newborn remains in critical condition.
Speaking on the Alpha Kalimera show, microbiologist and member of the Ministry of Health’s epidemiological surveillance unit, Michalis Mendris explains that the bacterium is transmitted through microdroplets and by inhalation.
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He clarifies that new and most air conditioners do not pose a risk unless they generate aerosols, noting that the infection does not affect everyone but rather vulnerable groups, including newborns.
“Legionella finds an opportunity to multiply when water is stagnant and temperatures are suitable. In other words, it cannot grow at high temperatures, nor at low ones—usually between 20 and 45 degrees—and it cannot grow when the water is flowing, because it is carried away. Therefore, these two factors are what help it grow.”
Dr. Mendris emphasizes that inspections are being conducted and that all hospitals are required by law to carry out inspections. He explains that inspections were conducted at this particular clinic on October 7, and the results were available immediately.
Pediatrician Panagiotis Giagou explains that Legionnaires’ disease is a very serious illness, a very severe form of pneumonia, and in most cases requires admission to an intensive care unit.
“Newborns are a high-risk group, as are children who, for whatever reason, are immunocompromised, that is, children undergoing chemotherapy, long-term corticosteroid therapy, or children with rheumatic diseases who are taking immunosuppressive medications.”
The doctor points out that the disease is transmitted through contaminated water via droplets and is not transmitted from person to person. He explains that sources of infection can include air conditioning systems, aerosols, humidifiers, and anything that may contain stagnant water.
Regarding the symptoms a child may experience, the doctor explains that these are the classic symptoms of pneumonia.
Legionella can cause two clinical presentations. One is Pontiac fever, which follows a course similar to the common flu, with symptoms of fever and a runny nose, and resolves on its own.
In a smaller percentage of cases, Legionella pneumonia develops, with an incubation period of two to ten days; this form has much more severe symptoms, including high fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and very severe headaches; it often leads to respiratory failure requiring intensive care.
